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Genetic Breakthrough Links Autism to Human Brain Evolution

9/23/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Oxford University Press reports autism-linked genes evolved in humans, linked to brain growth and language.
In the U.S., about 3.2% of children have Autism Spectrum Disorder; global estimates near 1 in 100.
Researchers report genetic changes in human brain cells, notably L2/3 IT neurons, versus other primates.
The study indicates slower postnatal brain development may have aided evolution.

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Story summary

Oxford University Press reports autism-linked genes evolved in humans, linked to brain growth and language.
In the U.S., about 3.2% of children have Autism Spectrum Disorder; global estimates near 1 in 100.
Researchers report genetic changes in human brain cells, notably L2/3 IT neurons, versus other primates.
The study indicates slower postnatal brain development may have aided evolution.