Imaging, Genetics and The Developing Brain in Autism

This presentation will review the results of longitudinal MRI brain imaging studies, conducted by our research team and collaborators, focused on two year olds with autistic disorder and two year olds with Fragile X Syndrome, followed up at 4 years of age. MRI brain imaging data will be presented reviewing key findings in autism as well as Fragile X Syndrome.  Results from preliminary studies of selected candidate genes and their relationship to brain volume will be reviewed.  Contrasts between autistic individuals with and without Fragile X will be discussed that provide insights into the complexity of genetic mechanisms underlying autistic behavior.