Blood and urine tests aim to spot autism early

BLOOD and urine tests to identify autism in children have been developed by researchers who hope the breakthrough could lead to earlier detection of autism spectrum disorders (ASD).

Researchers at the University of Warwick believe the new tests, which search for damage to proteins, are a first.

ASDs are defined as developmental disorders mainly affecting social interaction and can include a wide range of behavioural problems, which can make diagnosis difficult, particularly at the early stages of development.

The research team found a link between ASD and damage to proteins in blood plasma by oxidation and glycation —processes where reactive oxygen species (ROS) and sugar molecules spontaneously modify proteins.

Study leader Dr Naila Rabbani, reader of experimental systems biology at Warwick, said: “Our discovery could lead to earlier diagnosis and intervention. “We hope the tests will also reveal new causative factors”.