Diverse autism genes derail common developmental pathways

Publication date: Jul 08, 2026

Many genes linked to autism disrupt the same developmental pathways during embryonic development and the first two weeks of life, according to a new study in mice. At least half of the gene-expression changes were specific to individual mouse models, the study found. Gaia NovarinoThe engineered mice also show convergent changes in gene expression, particularly in excitatory neurons shortly after birth. Many of the affected genes encode proteins involved in synaptic signaling and neuronal activity, the study found. By forcing the brain to solve problems, the researchers may see greater convergence in early development, Novarino says. Putting aside those differences, organoid models often exhibit disruptions in neurogenesis, he says. Another avenue is to examine how molecular convergence changes when the animals are placed in challenging environments.

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