health

Researchers are looking in a number of different directions for new treatments
for autism and improved diagnostic techniques. Some are studying
serotonin, a chemical in the brain that affects the transmission of
impulses from one cell to another, to see whether the high levels of this
chemical in the blood of some children with autism are related to the disorder
in some way. Other scientists are continuing to look for genes that
may be linked to autism. In terms of behavior, researchers are testing the
effectiveness of a program that combines parent training and medication
to reduce the aggressive or disruptive behavior of some children with
autism.