March 12, 2007
Free Public Lecture: Genetic Research in Families With Autism
Newbury Park, Calif. (Ventura County)

Maricela Alarcón, Ph.D., assistant professor of neurology at UCLA and the recipient of a 2005 NARSAD Young Investigator Award, presented a free lecture, “Genetic Research in Families with Autism Spectrum Disorders,” on March 12. The lecture was brought to the community by NARSAD: The Mental Health Research Association and BMOD Fitness Corp.

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), also known as Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDDs), can cause severe and pervasive impairment in thinking, feeling, language, and the ability to relate to others. These disorders are usually first diagnosed in early childhood and range from a severe form, called autistic disorder, to a much milder form, Asperger syndrome. They also include two rare disorders, Rett syndrome and childhood disintegrative disorder.

Dr. Alarcón discussed the genetic link to autism. While specific genes contributing to the disorder have not yet been identified, existing genomic scans from one of the largest samples of families with autism has provided some evidence as to where susceptibility genes may reside. Dr. Alarcon explained how cutting-edge research may lead to the identification of a posited autism gene or genes.

Dr. Alarcón’s public lecture coincides with Brain Awareness Week, an international effort organized by the Dana Alliance for Brain Initiatives to advance public awareness about the progress and benefits of brain research. The campaign unites the interests and activities of federal agencies, patient service and advocacy groups, outreach organizations, professional groups, teaching hospitals and universities and private research centers. NARSAD is a partner of the Dana Alliance for Brain Initiatives in this campaign.

BMOD Fitness is a behavioral sensory integration company that works with children and adults with special needs. For more information, visit www.bmodfitness.com.