In This Article
In This Article
Yes, to a degree. Autism, also called autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a complex condition that affects brain development. It often has genetic causes.
However, genetics aren’t the only reason behind it. A recent study published in 2019 estimates that:1
This means that while autism is usually inherited, both genetic and non-genetic factors increase a child’s risk.
Moreover, there is no single gene that causes autism. Research shows that several gene variations or mutations related to brain development are linked to the condition.2
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that appears in young children as early as one to two years old.
People with this developmental disorder have a neurologic condition. This means that there’s something different about their nervous system compared to most neurotypical people.
Neurodevelopmental disorders affect how people learn and apply information and skills. A person with autism tends to struggle with:
Autism can affect a person’s ability to function at work, school, and in social environments. The severity of autistic traits can vary for each person.
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Yes. Autism can be genetically passed down from parent to offspring. If one or both parents have autism-causing genes, children can inherit them.
The latest genetic research suggests that children are more likely to inherit the autism gene from their father.2 While mothers pass half of their structural genetic variants to a child, fathers pass much more than 50 percent of their genetic mutations to children.2
Structural variants are DNA sequences that underwent major changes or mutations–such as duplication, deletion, or inversion. This increases the likelihood of passing the genetic risk for autism, along with other genetic disorders.
Sometimes, these mutations affect children and cause autism. However, a child can also inherit the same genetic variants or mutations without developing the condition.
Remember that environmental factors also play a role in autism development.
Not all autism disorders are hereditary. Others are sporadic or occur randomly.
Unaffected parents can still give birth to autistic children. In fact, half of these autism cases are caused by spontaneous mutations that are not present in the parent.3
A spontaneous mutation can occur in the father’s sperm or the mother’s egg and increase a child’s genetic predisposition for autism.3
A developing embryo may also undergo genetic changes when exposed to certain environmental factors before birth. During this time, they can develop the “autism risk genes.”
Autism arises from both genetic influences and environmental factors. The following non-genetic factors are known to increase a child’s autism risk:4
It’s important to know your family health history in order to identify any potential genetic disorders that run in your family. While many genetic disorders also come about by environmental factors, you still need to take any history into account.
When it comes to the inheritance of autism, it’s proven that autistic spectrum disorders tend to run in the family. If a family member has autism, it’s likely that you have autism or will have an autistic child.
Doctors aware of this family history can screen everyone (including unaffected family members) and identify autistic individuals.
Since affected children don’t always show signs of autism, screening ensures they are diagnosed and treated as soon as possible. Children with autism may only exhibit signs later in life, and some of them may be mild and unnoticeable.
People who are planning a pregnancy or who are already pregnant can take this information to a doctor. The doctor will use it to determine your likelihood of having autistic children.
Take note that autism can also be a result of spontaneous mutations, so even if your family doesn’t necessarily have a history of autism, you should still be prepared and even consider genetic counseling to be sure.
Doctors usually diagnose autism by looking into a child’s history. They will check for signs of developmental delay and other autistic symptoms.
ASD can be diagnosed at 18 months old or even younger. However, a diagnosis by the age of two is usually considered more reliable.
In some cases, the doctor will continue to monitor the affected child and may not make a final diagnosis until they are much older. Unfortunately, this delay can prevent them from getting the support they need to reach their full potential.
Children diagnosed with autism are often asked to undergo DNA testing.
The doctor might order a chromosomal microarray (CMA) to examine your chromosomes or a whole exome sequence test to look at your exomes.
Both genetic tests can identify genes involved in the development of autism.
You can take these results to a doctor or genetic counselor who can explain their meaning. They can use this information to help you decide on the next steps.
DNA tests can also check for other genetic conditions that may be causing your autism. Some examples include:
This can help doctors determine the best treatment for your condition. These results can explain any difficulties they may be having, whether it’s their social behavior or any struggles in the classroom. These tests can ensure they get the help and support they need.
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