Autism prevention: Scientists are getting closer to understanding autism, even preventing it

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  Quantumrun Foresight
• March 7, 2022

Insight summary

The mystery of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is beginning to unravel as recent research sheds light on its underlying causes and potential treatments. Studies have identified specific markers in human sperm linked to ASD, uncovered cellular processes that explain certain symptoms, and utilized machine learning to pinpoint patterns associated with the disorder. These discoveries open doors to early diagnosis, targeted therapies, and even prevention, with broader implications for healthcare, education, labor markets, and societal attitudes towards autism.

Autism prevention and cure context

The incidence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has seen a significant rise in recent decades, becoming a major concern for healthcare professionals and families alike. Depending on the severity of the condition, ASD can have a profound effect on the lives of those affected and their loved ones. Despite years of dedicated research, a cure for ASD remains elusive. However, recent findings offer hope, revealing that the condition may be inherited from both parents and that its effects might be lessened by infection.

In a study conducted in Spain, scientists identified specific markers in human sperm that could signal a likelihood to father children with ASD. This discovery could lead to new methods of early detection and prevention. Meanwhile, researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard Medical School believe they have uncovered the cellular processes that explain why symptoms of autism seem to diminish when an autistic child has a fever, a phenomenon that has puzzled medical experts for years. These insights may pave the way for new therapeutic approaches.

A separate investigation at UC Davis MIND Institute utilized machine learning to pinpoint several patterns of maternal autoantibodies associated with autism. This study concentrated on maternal autoantibody-related autism spectrum disorder (MAR ASD), responsible for approximately 20 percent of all autism cases. Understanding these patterns could lead to more targeted interventions and support for those living with this specific form of autism. 

Disruptive impact 

These research results shed welcome light on a condition that has baffled the medical profession for decades and opens the door to possible early diagnosis and treatment of behaviors associated with autism. For instance, men could be tested to assess whether they might pass autism on to their children. The scientists warn that more research is needed before the study’s findings will become a medical tool.

Also, early diagnosis of MAR autism may become possible with pre-conception testing, especially for high-risk women older than 35 or those who already gave birth to a child with autism. Early diagnosis could give women the choice to not have children, thus preventing a child from being born with the disorder. These findings have so far come from animal studies.

Following studies in mice, scientists may be able to develop treatments that could modulate some behaviors related to autism or other neurological disorders. If they achieve success with these treatments, they could improve the quality of life for sufferers and their families. It may also be possible to prevent autism in the future. In the near term, the healthcare community can derive hope from current study results.

Implications of autism prevention

Wider implications of autism prevention may include:

• The development of targeted therapies and interventions for individuals with autism, leading to improved quality of life and increased societal integration.


• The potential for genetic counseling and personalized family planning, allowing couples to make informed decisions about childbearing based on their likelihood of having a child with autism.


• A shift in educational strategies and resources to accommodate early diagnosis and treatment, resulting in more effective support for children with autism and their families.


• The creation of new policies and regulations to guide research, ethical considerations, and the application of new technologies in the field of autism, ensuring responsible progress.


• The possibility of reducing healthcare costs through early detection and prevention, leading to a more efficient allocation of resources in the healthcare system.


• A potential change in the labor market, with increased demand for specialists in autism care, research, and education, fostering job growth in these areas.


• The ethical dilemma of selecting against certain genetic traits, which may lead to debates and potential legislation around genetic discrimination and the value of neurodiversity.


• A shift in societal attitudes and stigma surrounding autism, influenced by increased understanding and acceptance, fostering a more inclusive community.


• The potential economic implications for industries related to autism care and research, including pharmaceuticals, education, and healthcare, leading to new business models and consumer behaviors.

Questions to consider

• How soon will scientists discover what causes autism?


• Do you think society will ever be completely free of autism?