Early Neural Changes Predict Autism Language Outcomes

Measuring neural activity in language-sensitive brain regions of toddlers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may help identify those who go on to have poor language outcomes, researchers have discovered in a groundbreaking study.

By combining early brain imaging with performance on behavioral tests, the team could accurately predict language outcomes, thus helping to explain some of the heterogeneity and different developmental trajectories seen in children with ASD.

"These findings open insight into the first steps that lead to different clinical and treatment outcomes, and in the future, one can imagine clinical evaluation and treatment planning incorporating multiple accurate behavioral and medical prognostic assessments," coauthor Karen Pierce, PhD, codirector of the University of California, San Diego, Autism Center, said in a release.

"That would be a huge practical benefit for families."

The study was published online April 9 in Neuron.

High Level of Accuracy

The researchers recruited 60 children aged 18 to 24 months with ASD, matching them by sex and age to 19 language/developmentally delayed individuals and 24 typically developing individuals.