Interdisciplinary Research Program (IDRP) - Identifying Potential Biomarkers for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

 To identify and validate a list of molecular biomarkers for the early diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as well as enhance our understanding of the underlying mechanisms of ASD pathophysiology. These markers could further facilitate the development of clinical targets for early intervention, which may prevent, delay, or reduce the severity of the disorder. To identify these specific biomarkers, the team will apply a blend of Omic approaches to a well-defined cohort.

Next-generation sequencing technologies, including whole-genome sequencing, will be used to identify gene variants, while proteomic studies will investigate novel biomarker proteins and autoantibodies, and metabolic studies of novel metabolic signatures of ASD. Collectively, these results have the potential to facilitate the development of clinical targets for early intervention to either prevent, delay, or reduce the severity of the disorder.