Autism breakthrough as scientists find 70 genes ‘strongly linked’ to condition

SCIENTISTS have discovered dozens of genes strongly linked to autism, which could be a breakthrough.

Researchers hope the more than 70 newly-identified genetic variants could pave the way for new tests and treatments for the condition.

Autism and related conditions such as Asperger’s affects more than one in 100 British children ten times more than 30 years ago.

Despite the rise, the condition is still little understood and getting a diagnosis can be lengthy and stressful for patients and their families.

Families are often forced to attend multiple hospital appointments and have children undergo several psychological tests.

While drugs can be given to control symptoms such as aggression or hyperactivity, there is no cure.

In the largest study of its kind, U.S. researchers looked at the DNA of 150,000 participants, 20,000 of whom had been diagnosed with autism.

They identified 72 genes that are ‘very strongly’ linked to the condition and hundreds more with looser associations.

It’s hoped the latest study, published in Nature Genetics, will help future research teams narrow their focus.