In the world of autism spectrum disorder, cutting-edge technological innovations are continuously brought to the forefront of research and interventions. Autism research and technology are ultimatley forming a symbiotic relationship that seems promising for improving social, cognitive, and semantic abilities. From immersive virtual reality to AI-driven storytelling, new tools are expanding possibilities for improving social, …
SCN1A stands for sodium voltage-gated channel alpha subunit 1 and the gene that encodes this channel is part of a family of genes that provides instructions to make sodium channels, which are essential in cellular signaling. SCN1A in particular encodes a sodium channel called NaV1.1 which is found in the brain. During this past school …
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention defines Autism Spectrum Disorder, or ASD, as a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain. It's defined by the National Institute of Mental Health as a neurological and developmental disorder that influences how individuals interact with others. A Response to the Huberman Lab Podcast A couple of …
Continue reading Exploring the Biological Basis of Autism Spectrum Disorder
When you’re 18 years old, a big question occupies your mind: “How does one decide to leave home to go to school and start a new chapter of their life?” It’s very complicated. Technically, I’m an adult. I’m 18 years old. I’m legal. However, I’m still a “teen.” I still want hugs from my Mommy, …
Research on autism spectrum disorder offers opportunities to study specific genetic mutations that could potentially reveal biological insights into the development of autism. Consistent with this, researchers have created lists of hundreds of studied risk genes for autism. The vast majority of autism cases are the result of multiple genetic and biological factors (Singer, n.d.). …
Continue reading SCN2A: A Top Candidate Gene Linked to Autism
Dr. Jessica Schwartzman’s research goes above and beyond when it comes to helping improve the quality of life of the neurodiverse community. She has researched critical real-world problems, such as COVID and suicide, as they have affected adolescents with autism and studied them to find solutions to such serious current issues. She is a professional …
Whenever I’ve interviewed a researcher specialized in studying autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders, most of them recommend that I continue my interview series with Dr. Grace Baranek, a globally renowned professional in sensory characteristics and occupational therapy in children with autism spectrum disorder. She has co-authored more than 100 peer-reviewed articles in several prestigious journals, …
Continue reading Occupational Therapy’s Role in Autism: Dr. Baranek’s Perspectives
Dr. Lisa Liberatore is not only a supportive Mom and talented doctor. She is one of the strongest advocates for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and has really taken the necessary steps to improve the quality of life for her son on the autism spectrum, Michael. With the help of her husband, Dr. Dimitri Kessaris, Dr. …
Continue reading All for LUV – A Conversation with Dr. Lisa Liberatore
Walking out of the elevator, I was greeted with bursts of color along the hallways of the Toby and Leon Cooperman Therapy and Family Resource Center. Feeling like a child once again, I followed the pathways along the tiles across the floor, putting me at ease. A tactile wall with different materials lines the hallway, …
Continue reading Therapies and Resources at the Toby and Leon Cooperman Center
I'm walking to raise funds for the mission of Autism Speaks - to fuel innovative research and make connections to critical lifelong supports and services for the autism community. Please support me by donating and help me meet my fundraising goal: My Personal Autism Speaks Walk Page - and you, too, can join the team …