Altered mitochondria associated with increased autism risk

(Children's Hospital of Philadelphia) Mitochondria, the tiny structures inside our cells that generate energy, may play a key role in autism spectrum disorders (ASD). A provocative new study by Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP)'s pioneering mitochondrial medicine team suggests that variations in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) originating during ancient human migrations may be an important contributor to ASD predisposition.
Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science - Category: International Medicine & Public Health Source Type: news