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Genetic determinants and microbial profiles contributing to the variation of phenotype in children with autism spectrum disorders

We are looking for partners working in the research field of autism spectrum disorder pathogenesis, particularly including genetics and (gastrointestinal) microbial profiles.

Tags: Genetics

Description: Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) requires attention in terms of availability of proper diagnostic procedures including complex psychological assessment and DNA diagnostics. Academic Center for Autism Research provides advanced diagnostic and psychological testing of ASD suspected children. Polygenic nature of autism calls for evaluation of cumulative effects of multiple DNA variants on phenotype. We aim to detect DNA diagnostic yield employing whole genome sequencing procedure in Slovakia and to evaluate polygenic contribution to variability of phenotype including core symptom severities, cognitive abilities, executive functions, adaptive behaviour and problem behaviour. Other research areas of our interest include environmental factor such as diet, gastrointestinal microbial profiles including bacterial metabolites, food intake regulation hormones and their genetic background which may have effect on symptome severity and behavioral specifics in ASD children. We would like to compare these results with other european countries, to evaluate potential regional specificity.

  • Disciplinary field: Genetics, Microbiology, Psychology
  • Funding programme: ENLIGHT+
  • Institution: Comenius University Bratislava
  • Faculty/Department: Institute of Physiology
  • First and last name: Silvia Lakatošová
  • Position: Researcher
  • Tags: Genetics