Autism scientists seek more brains for research & are building a network to collect specimens

CHICAGO – Autism scientists are seeking more brain samples for research.

They announced Thursday a new network collecting brain specimens around the country. They say the more they get, the better the chances of finding better ways to treat the developmental disorder.

So far the network has four sites: Mount Sinai medical school in New York, the University of California in Davis, the University of Texas Southwestern in Dallas, and McLean Hospital near Boston.

A freezer malfunction damaged many of that Harvard-affiliated hospital’s specimens. Neuroscientist Robert Ring of the advocacy group Autism Speaks says the network was planned before that.

Ring says the network has more than 6,000 people signed up to be donors after death. Brains from people with autism and without are needed.

___

Online:

Autism tissue program: http://www.autismtissueprogram.org

News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Join the Conversation!

Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community?

Create a free account

The Associated Press

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world’s population sees AP journalism every day.

Related Articles