The NeuroDevNet Autism Spectrum Disorders Demonstration Project

The NeuroDevNet Autism Spectrum Disorder Demonstration Project interfaces at many levels with the network's research themes and priorities. Our interdisciplinary team aims to improve understanding of genetic factors underlying vulnerability to autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) to develop better diagnostic strategies and, ultimately, to pinpoint molecular pathways relevant to developing biologically based treatments. Linking our existing longitudinal ASD cohorts with both genetics and neuroimaging studies will provide, for the first time, integrated data on how the genetic variation influences brain and behavioral development in ASD. Importantly, as our science progresses and we translate this information to the health care system, we will also educate policy makers, media, and business, so an informed society is prepared to capitalize on new genomic advances and effectively integrate these into health services for the broader community. We believe that this research has the potential to transform assessment and care for individuals with ASD.