Autism - Early Diagnosis
Professor Pat Levitt explains that the sooner autism is diagnosed, the more effective the intervention.
There is obviously a lot of interest in understanding whether discoveries in genetics can guide interventions. There are examples in medicine, for example cystic fibrosis. We've identified the gene that is responsible for cystic fibrosis, we've known about it for a lot of years. [But] it has been difficult to use that information to develop better interventions. What we think might happen in genetics related to brain disorders, is that it will give us a better way of diagnosing the disorder. And if you have better diagnosis and earlier diagnosis, you can develop interventions that are more effective. We’re really interested in pursuing this for example in autism. Where the earlier the diagnosis, the better the intervention has in terms of moving things on a typical path.
autism, autistic, diagnosis, intervention, early, earlier, pat, levitt
- ID: 1222
- Source: DNALC.G2C
- Download: Theora Video MPEG 4 Video Windows Media Video
Related Content
1224. Schizophrenia - Early Symptoms
Professor Pat Levitt explains that while schizophrenia is rarely seen in childhood, there are early signs of developmental problems.
1227. Autism and Twin Studies (2)
Professor Pat Levitt explains that twin studies of autism show that it is a highly genetic disorder.
884. Background to Autism
Autism is a disorder in brain development that becomes apparent in earliest childhood. It is defined by problems in socialization, communication, and repetitive behaviors.
883. Treating Autism
Exploring the possiblities of 'bringing back' the brain of a child with autism.
1127. Autism - an Epidemic?
Professor David Skuse discusses the rise in autism diagnosis, which does not appear to relate to toxins, immunizations, or allergies.
1230. Progenitor Cells
Professor Pat Levitt describes progenitor cells, which are immature, undifferentiated cells. They are the precursors to neurons.
1130. Autism - Gender Ratio
Professor David Skuse explains that autism is more common in boys than girls.
1225. Schizophrenia - Genetic Vulnerability
Professor Pat Levitt comments that people with genetic vulnerability to schizophrenia often have developmental problems from an early age.
2006. Genetic testing and early intervention
Doctor Thomas Insel discusses genetic testing, the need to identify disorders early, and the importance of preemptive intervention.
1231. Progenitor Cells and Cell Fate
Professor Pat Levitt explains that progenitor cells express transcription factors that determine whether the cell becomes a neuron.