If anyone saw the news item heralding a possible drug cure for autism and was elated but confused, let me try to explain the thinking as best I can.
A protein present extensively in infants prunes synapses, the connections between brain and nervous system cells, enabling us to function effectively in the world with neither too little nor too much stimulation. This protein is somewhat lacking in some infants, allowing too much stimulation, and is called autism or the autism spectrum.
This protein is present throughout life but is largely inactive. It can become active in later life, often triggered by another protein, a body or brain injury like a stroke (even glaucoma, it appears), inflammation or old age. If synaptic pruning is again activated, it results in dementia or Alzheimers. Lending some credence to this line of thought is the fact that people with autism appear to be less susceptible to Alzheimers.
It sounds dreary, but all is not lost. The cells involved are neuroglial cells, formerly thought merely to be supportive, structurally and nutritively, in the brain and nervous system. They are actually part of the immune system and may be normalized by a bone marrow transplant. This may be the way to go.
For more information, see the article, The Inconstant Gardner, in the Science News archives.
BROOKS KEOGH, Topeka
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Letter: Autism treatment explained