Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects social communication, interaction, behaviors and interests. It is characterized by a range of symptoms and severity, which is why it is called a spectrum disorder. Symptoms typically appear in early childhood and can include difficulties with communication, social interactions, repetitive behaviors, and sensory sensitivities. Autism can have a significant impact on a person’s daily life, and it is estimated that approximately 1 in 36 children in the United States are diagnosed with ASD today. Despite ongoing research efforts, the exact causes of autism are still not fully understood, and there is currently no known cure. However, early diagnosis and intervention can greatly improve outcomes for individuals with autism.
What are Current Therapies for ASD?
At present, there is no single drug that has been specifically approved for the treatment of ASD. However, there is an array of medications and treatment options that may be used to address certain symptoms associated with ASD, such as anxiety, aggression, hyperactivity, attention problems and irritability.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and antipsychotics may be prescribed to treat anxiety and aggression. Other medications, such as stimulants and alpha-agonists (clonidine and guanfacine), may be used to address hyperactivity and inattention. Probiotics have been shown to potentially improve symptoms of autism. Additionally, there have even been studies showing cannabidiol (CBD) as a potential treatment in reducing anxiety for ASD.
However, people with ASD are referred to specialists that provide behavioral, psychological, educational and skill-building interventions to help them cope and manage the symptoms. In any case, it is important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to treating ASD, and the most effective treatment plan will depend on the individual’s specific needs and symptoms.
What is the Potential “Cure” for Autism?
MYT1L is a gene that is expressed in all neurons throughout life. Recently the discovery of its mutation have been reported in patients with intellectual disability, schizophrenia, epilepsy, and even ASD. Besides behavioral factors, people with MYT1L mutations may display developmental delays, obesity, seizures, and brain malformations.
The science behind this mechanism stems from the neuronal deficiency in the MYT1L gene that can cause electrophysical hyperactivity which is also seen in people with seizures, but can also show the typical symptoms and functional changes of autism. The recent study has shown lamotrigine, a medication used to treat epilepsy may have the potential to help treat autism. ASD is not only about impairments in social interactions, communication, stereotypical behavior patterns, but epilepsy and hyperactivity can also be seen.
So far this concept has only been studied in mice and no actual research in humans has been done to further understand the link of MYT1L gene mutation and autism and with the potential use of lamotrigine for treatment. Although this theory is in its early stages of discovery, the excitement of having another possible treatment for autism seems to be near. It might not be a total “cure” for this condition, but it does take a step in the right direction of being able to manage symptoms and give people with ASD the ability to form stronger connections with the world and shape their own future.
References: Weigel, Bettina, et al. “MYT1L Haploinsufficiency in Human Neurons and Mice Causes Autism-Associated Phenotypes That Can Be Reversed by Genetic and Pharmacologic Intervention.” Molecular Psychiatry, 2023, https://doi.org/10.1038/s41380-023-01959-7.
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