SPARK’s Pilot Study Finds Genetic Results for 10 Percent of Families
Genetic analysis from the first 457 families to enroll in SPARK provides new support for several genes linked to autism.
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The articles and webinars below highlight the latest autism research findings made possible by SPARK participants, researchers, and others throughout the world. You can also read about the autism journeys of SPARK families.
To browse through our articles, webinars, and family stories by topic, view our Topics in Autism page.
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Genetic Diagnosis Tied to Autism Reveals Undiagnosed Heart Condition
Their son’s genetic diagnosis revealed an undiagnosed heart condition.
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A Genetic Diagnosis Illuminates a Troublesome Symptom
After enrolling in SPARK, the Meiles learned that their son has a change in the POGZ gene. The diagnosis helps explain a mysterious health issue.
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After 18 Years, a Genetic Diagnosis
Carrie is one of the first SPARK participants to get a genetic result. Her mother, Lynn, says everything has changed and nothing has changed.
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SHANK3
SHANK3 is one of the genes most commonly linked to autism. Nearly 1 percent of people with autism have changes in this gene.
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Categorizing Autism Based on Genes
In the TIGER study, researchers are searching for common symptoms among people with changes in the same genes.
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SCN2A: An Evolving Picture
The SCN2A gene has traditionally been linked to early-onset epilepsy. But new research suggests it might account for roughly 1 in 333 cases of autism.
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What Makes an Autism Gene?
Scientists are regularly discovering new genes that might be linked to autism. How do they know when they have found a linked gene?
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CHD8: A Common Cause of Autism
People with changes in this gene have similar symptoms. Scientists hope this knowledge will lead to new treatments and a better understanding of the condition.
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In Genetic Diagnosis, a Path Forward
Discovering their son’s genetic diagnosis helps one family in many ways.
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