New ADDM findings: estimated one in 44 children aged 8 with autism
The Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network, tasked with surveying autism rates in the United States, has published its latest prevalence estimates for autism covering the year 2018. The headline national estimate: one in 44 children (2.3%) aged 8 years old have an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), with some states such as California reporting a figure of 1 in 26 children (3.9%). The figures continue to document a 20-year upward trend in the autism prevalence rate with no apparent plateauing in sight. The reasons for the increase are likely complex. Long-standing explanations about greater awareness and identification are however wearing thin after two decades of such sustained growth. Conversations about the hows and whys of such rates also need to go hand-in-hand with how money, resources and services need to be put in place to ensure that people are adequately supported both as children and as adults.
Could existing drugs be helpful for autism?
Identifying so-called ‘network-specific core genes’ relevant to autism led to a number of already available medicines and compounds being further illuminated as possible intervention options for autism according to research from China. The proof-of- concept study initially looked at a variety of genes in various brain regions. Researchers then looked at gene expression patterns of said genes (potentially important to autism) and screened various databases for information about drugs and compounds known to act upon the molecular targets occurring downstream from such gene expression data. They identified several potential target formulations including an active form of vitamin D (calcitriol) and an antibiotic (metronidazole). While an intriguing prospect, the authors did caution that further experimental study is required on any target medicines identified before their usefulness or not for autism is decided.
Introduce the term ‘profound autism’ says global commission on autism
Introduction of the term ‘profound autism’ - referring to those with limited communication abilities, requiring round-the-clock support and not able to advocate for themselves - into clinical and research circles has been proposed by a global commission looking at autism. Writing in the prestigious Lancet journal, a consortium of researchers and decision-makers highlighted a suite of recommendations focused on enhancing research and care for those with autism. Alongside further highlighting the massive heterogeneity that autism encompasses, the document talks about the requirement for more personalized services and research. In particular, the need to prioritize research that has real-world application to enhancing here and now quality of life for people with autism.
Bumetanide for autism: meta-analysis says: "Perhaps?"
Although bumetanide (Bumex), a loop diuretic being evaluated as a treatment for autism failed to reach it's primary endpoint in a recent Phase III trial, researchers who have conducted a meta-analysis of almost 500 research research participants across multiple trials have showed there were, in fact, significant improvements in various core symptoms of autism. Results from six randomized-controlled trials (RCTs), utilizing a variety of autism behavioral outcome measures, showed a small but significant effect on behavior following 3-month use of the drug. Importantly, the side-effects from bumetanide use were relatively mild, with further data specifically needed on hypokalemia (low blood potassium levels) reported in some trials. More studies are required on the mode of action of the medicine and whether specific subgroups of autism might show greater benefit than others, which is not uncommon in a heterogeneous condition such as autism.
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