Autism Science Foundation

Get your tickets for ASF's 12th Annual Day of Learning on April 9 at the New York Athletic Club in NYC! This year’s focus is on how technology is transforming #autism research and treatment—featuring top experts from around the world. Don't miss out—tickets are selling fast. Register now before it's too late! https://lnkd.in/eWVuer7X

This week marks the 20th anniversary of NBC’s "Autism: The hidden epidemic?" As the series' coordinating producer, ASF President Alison Singer reflects in this article on the progress made since it aired and the critical work ahead to make a meaningful difference for the #autism community. We must renew our commitment to find the true causes of autism, deliver transformative treatments, and advocate for better policies that improve lives. Read Alison's article: 

Aspiring undergraduate autism researchers – don’t miss your chance to apply for the 2025 Undergraduate Summer Research Fellowship in Autism Spectrum Disorders! This is an incredible paid opportunity to gain hands-on experience in autism research across various disciplines. Applications are due by March 2. Apply here: https://lnkd.in/e2B-8c_M

Many individuals with profound autism experience severe behaviors like self-injury and aggression. Finding the causes—and solutions—is critical. Join ASF, along with experts from the University of Pittsburgh, Stanford University, the National Council on Severe Autism, and Autism Speaks, for a meeting to explore emotional regulation, its impact on these behaviors, and available interventions.  When: Wednesday, February 26, 12:00 PM ET. Register here: https://lnkd.in/eyy7-dsr

Statement from ASF Chief Science Officer Alycia Halladay regarding the CBS News report on leucovorin: CBS News recently reported on a child with autism who showed improvement in language after treatment with leucovorin, a drug that boosts folate levels. While this story highlights the potential for repurposing existing treatments, it is important to clarify several points based on scientific research. The study referenced in the story was a randomized controlled trial (RCT) examining the effects of leucovorin on children with autism and folate deficiencies; it was conducted eight years ago and has yet to be replicated. Furthermore, its findings, including a slight improvement in verbal communication observed in some participants, represent only a small fraction of the study population. The dramatic improvement seen in the featured child is not typical of the responses observed in the study. More research is needed to understand the potential benefits of leucovorin, especially for those with folate deficiencies. At ASF, we support ongoing research into repurposed drugs, but we emphasize the importance of continued scientific inquiry to ensure the safety and effectiveness of new treatments. Read the story here: https://lnkd.in/eE5RervW

The ASF Participate in Research Initiative connects families with studies that advance #autism understanding and access to intervention. One featured study, Baby Navigator, offers expert infant evaluations and telehealth coaching to support early intervention at home. Learn more from Autism Navigator and see the flyer below. 

ASF is driven by a singular mission: ensuring science leads the way in improving the lives of people with #autism. Our commitment remains stronger than ever. Read an important message from our President Alison Singer: https://lnkd.in/eHa9n47q

As this article describes, catatonia in #autism is an often overlooked but serious co-occurring condition, and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may make a difference for some individuals. ASF will address issues around catatonia and ECT in an upcoming webinar series set to begin in early April. Read the article here: https://lnkd.in/e_Q_iqjG

#Autism is a lifelong journey, shaped not just by individual factors like genetics but also by contextual influences—family, school, work, social networks, and more. A new #openaccess study organized by ASF Chief Science Officer Alycia Halladay highlights why understanding these contextual factors is key to better outcomes. All can read it here: https://lnkd.in/d97XxSHh

Congratulations to the Morris family—Robin, Danny, Paul, Jesse, Sabrina, and Tyler! They will receive the 2025 Caryn Schwartzman Spirit Award at ASF’s 12th Annual Day of Learning on April 9, 2025, in NYC. This annual award recognizes family members of individuals with #autism who have made a lasting impact through research advocacy. Day of Learning tickets are going fast. Get them here: https://lnkd.in/d7nDqPz5