I'm not a scientist and so I don't understand this article fully, however from what I read I believe that they grew cells from mice embryos and engineered them using a gene editing technology which allows precise changes to DNA, so that they had the genetic mutations associated with autism. How do we know that the results they observed mirror what happens in a human brain? How can we be sure that DNA mutations seen in autistic people caused their autism? Are there any science experts here who can explain more?
There is a big incentive to find a medication to "treat" autism, as the pharmaceutical industry makes mega bucks for its shareholders. But in the UK if there was widespread prescribing, it would put more financial pressure on the already strained NHS.
And if they did eliminate autism, or medicate away autistic traits and behaviour what then? Here are some good quotes from the autistic woman, college professor and animal behaviour expert Temple Grandin:
"Normal people have an incredible lack of empathy"
"There needs to be more emphasis on what a child CAN do, rather than what they cannot do"
"The world needs different kinds of minds to work together"
"What would happen if the autism gene was eliminated from the gene pool? You would have a bunch of people standing around ...... Chatting and socialising and not getting anything done"
Thanks Lotus, I think that's a considered and positive way to view this emerging theory. I saw a counsellor a few years ago who said the world would be better without gay people. I am gay so I found that hurtful. I think she meant that gayness can cause heartache ? However, it was an ill considered thing to say as gay people are not the problem its how other people respond. Without gay people the world would be poorer, less inclusive, more bigoted. Autism is hard, it can hurt individuals managing it and those we love and live around. But autism also brings drive, intensity and new perspectives. Many of the greatest scientists, musicians, writers and artists may have been and are autistic. Understanding the nature of autism, better support for autistic people and real choices to help manage autism its associated conditions and distress would be progress but if it were possible to eliminate autism in the future- not so sure.
