A Gene-Environment Interaction Linked with Autism Severity

In children with ASD, genetic predisposition modified the interaction between prenatal maternal infection and severity of certain behaviors.

Epidemiologic studies suggest that activation of the maternal immune system in response to infection during pregnancy increases the risk for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, in most pregnancies a gestational infection is not associated with autism. Could a child's genetic predisposition to ASD play a role in this association?

Researchers evaluated the interactive effect of ASD-associated copy number variants (CNVs), determined by array comparative genomic hybridization, and self-reported infection or fever during pregnancy on autism severity in 1971 children with ASD (age range, 4–18 years). The diagnosis of ASD was established with a standardized test and diagnostic interview.

Children with ASD-associated CNVs and a history of matern…

Reviewing Authors

Martin T. Stein, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory boardPearson Neuroscience Advisory Board

Speaker’s bureauAmerican Academy of Pediatrics

RoyaltiesElsevier, Inc.

Editorial boardsJournal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics