Common genetic variations that can contribute to autism have been reliably identified for the first time in research that promises to improve the diagnosis and understanding of the disorder.

The DNA changes, which affect genes involved in early brain development, are together involved in up to 15 per cent of autism cases, the most extensive study of its kind yet conducted has found.

The findings significantly deepen scientific understanding of the genetic origins of autism, offering insights into the condition’s underlying biology that could eventually lead to new treatments.

While it has long been established that autism has a strong inherited component, previous research has failed to reveal any common DNA variants that were involved.

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Published in The Time, Wednesday 29th April 2009

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