SPARK Data Reveals a Common Genetic Change Linked to Autism
A new study using data from 6,000 families in SPARK suggests that a gene called DDHD2 may play a role in autism.
Read MoreRead more about: Autism genes
Get the latest autism updates from SPARK, including information about genes and ASD research, webinars, and personal stories from our community.
Our ‘genes’ page provides short, easy-to-understand descriptions of genes linked to autism. Under ‘research’, you’ll find the latest updates from SPARK and other autism studies. In our ‘stories’ section, families, scientists and others share their journeys. In our monthly webinars, speakers from the autism community provide useful information for families and people with autism. All are welcome–invitation links are issued in our monthly newsletter. If you have suggestions for webinar topics, please email us at webinars@sparkforautism.org.
First a Cleft Lip, then Autism
More than three years after a genetic diagnosis, Brody Eidam has surpassed doctor’s expectations. But he and his family still face lots of challenges.
Read More
Genetic Differences in Males and Females Diagnosed with Autism
A new study suggests that different genes can contribute to autism in biological males and females.
Read More
Getting a Genetic Diagnosis from SPARK Answers a Family’s Questions
When Mercedes Riggs opened the email from SPARK, she texted her husband, “You won’t believe this.” Learn how SPARK provided answers to one family’s questions about their son’s autism.
Read More
Webinar: Sex Bias and the Genetics of Autism
In this recorded webinar, learn about recent genetic research that may help explain why more males than females are diagnosed with autism.
Read More
Self-Injury and Affection: In Rare Disorder, a Puzzling Collection of Symptoms
By participating in research, the Manning family hopes to connect with others with the same rare condition as their daughter.
Read More
Extremely Rare Condition Linked to Autism
The King family learned their son had a change in a gene called CUL3.
Read More
A Genetic Diagnosis Surprises an Ohio Family
When the McGregors joined SPARK, they did not expect to learn the cause of their son’s autism. Then came an email from SPARK about genetic results.
Read More
Taking the Reins: A Family’s Decision Pays Off
Receiving a genetic diagnosis for their daughter was in many ways a huge relief for the Zeyer family.
Read More
At 30 Years Old, a Genetic Diagnosis
Decades after their son was diagnosed with autism, the Jarboe family learned that he has a gene change in one of his chromosomes, structures inside cells that contain our DNA.
Read More