Prevalence of Genomic Change Provides New Visions of Autism

Genomic analysis has emphasized the enormous genetic contribution to autism spectrum disorders,
with over 80% of patients having changes demonstrable by high resolution chromosome (microarray)
analysis or whole exome sequencing. An overview of these genetic changes demonstrates the
expected role of synaptic transmission in autism and, together with clinical observations, emphasizes
the importance of visual input on developing sensory systems and social responses. Neonatal
recognition of autism predisposition through genetic analysis could allow sensory stimulation
therapies during periods of neuroplasticity, an approach analogous to strabismus correction before
the cortical dissociation of the deviant eye. A good observation may lead to results which a
meaningless experiment cannot achieve, and a good idea or analysis may accomplish with one strike
what a thousand experiments cannot do. We must therefore take whatever material is available in any
field and try to use it to its full extent, subject to critical evaluation.