One of the most prestigious scientific centers in the USA — researchers from Stanford University School of Medicine — have made a historic discovery in the field of autism treatment. According to the Daily Mail, they found a way to eliminate autism symptoms with a drug that requires only a single dose.
Scientific aspects of the study
As noted in an article published in Science Advances, researchers studying autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in mice discovered that hyperactivity in the reticular nucleus of the thalamus — which is responsible for processing sensory information — is linked to autistic behaviors.
The drug and its effect
During the trials, scientists administered a drug called Z944 (ulixacaltamide). Originally, this drug was intended to treat epilepsy. However, the results were astonishing: a single administration reduced hyperactivity in the brain and eliminated many autism-related symptoms.
According to the researchers, the drug reduced mice’s hypersensitivity to light and sound, self-stimulatory behavior, repetitive actions, social difficulties, and even the risk of seizures.
Link between epilepsy and autism
The study showed that the brain processes controlling autism and epilepsy may overlap. This explains why individuals diagnosed with autism are 30 times more likely to develop epilepsy compared to the general population. Over time, this may lead to declining cognitive abilities, regression of speech, and social skills.
Future opportunities
The researchers emphasized that Z944 could open new possibilities for treating both autism and epilepsy simultaneously. However, the drug has not yet completed clinical trials and is not available for widespread use. Its safety and effectiveness in humans remain uncertain.
Experts believe this breakthrough could pave the way for new directions in medicine and potentially improve the lives of millions of people in the future.
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