The Study to Explore Early Development (SEED): a multisite epidemiologic study of autism by the Centers for Autism...

Area of Science:

• Neurodevelopmental Disorders
• Pediatric Health
• Genetics and Environment

Background:

• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) presents significant knowledge gaps in phenotype and etiology.
• Early identification and understanding of ASD are crucial for effective intervention.
• Multisite research is needed to address the complexity of ASD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize the behavioral phenotype of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in early development.
• To identify associated developmental, medical, and behavioral conditions in children with ASD.
• To investigate genetic and environmental risk factors, including immunologic, hormonal, gastrointestinal, and sociodemographic factors.

Main Methods:

• Utilizes a case-control design with population-based ascertainment of children aged 2-5 years.
• Includes children with ASD, general population controls, and controls with non-ASD developmental problems.
• Collects data through questionnaires, interviews, clinical evaluations, biospecimen sampling, and medical record abstraction, focusing on prenatal and early postnatal periods.

Main Results:

• Data collection is ongoing, focusing on comprehensive phenotyping and risk factor assessment.
• The study is designed to provide a robust dataset for hypothesis testing.
• Preliminary findings will emerge as data analysis progresses.

Conclusions:

• The Study to Explore Early Development (SEED) is a critical resource for advancing the understanding of ASD.
• Findings are expected to inform future research and clinical practices related to ASD.
• This study will contribute valuable insights into the characteristics and causes of autism spectrum disorder.