Genes:
Genetic studies of autism was conducted by the CPEA Network. They highlight some of the ways genes may be involved in autism. They used a process called "Linkage Analysis" to identify genetic "hotspots" or chromosome areas where defective genes related to autism may be found. At this point, the most promising leads seem to be on the following; "Chromosome 7", where genes for other language disorders are known to exist and "Chromosome 15" where genes for other developmental disorders have already been identified.
MMR Vaccine:
Parents and families of children with autism believe that the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine caused the autism. However, there is still no definite and scientific proof that any vaccine or combination of vaccines can cause such disorder. In year 2000, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) at the National Academy of Sciences - at the request of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the NIH - conducted a review of all the evidence related to the autism and MMR vaccine. The IOM concluded that the evidence reviewed did not support an association between the MMR vaccine and autism .
Rett Syndrome:
This syndrome is one of many conditions classified as an Autism Spectrum Disorder. Meaning, it is not autism but has features that are similar to it. This disorder causes autism-like symptoms that merely begin sometime between ages 6 and 18 months. The symptoms are:
1. Poor language skills
2. Repeated hand motions
3. Decreased social contact in girls
