The genetics of autism

Autism is a significant childhood disorder. Studies are underway to define more clearly the disorder and its various manifestations and to correlate this information with an etiology. Genes are known to play an important role in autism, and a vigorous search is underway to define those genes. The Human Genome Project provides the basis that allows us to move beyond single gene disorders and to contemplate progress for complex disorders, such as autism. Genome screens of affected siblings and detailed molecular analyses of chromosome abnormalities identified in autistic subjects has led in the past year to the identification of several candidate genes. However, the problem of determining which are the real genes remains. This is complicated because the presentation of the disorder is so variable, and milder manifestations in relatives are not yet understood. But the fact that we can now name possible genes for this disorder reflects how quickly our understanding is progressing.