Brain Study Identifies Four Autism Subtypes Based on Activity and Behavior

Researchers have identified four distinct subtypes of autism based on brain activity and behavior using a combination of machine learning and neuroimaging data. The study found patterns of brain connections linked with behavioral traits in people with autism, such as verbal ability, social affect, and repetitive or stereotypic behaviors. The four autism subgroups could also be replicated in a separate dataset, and differences in regional gene expression and protein-protein interactions explain the brain and behavioral differences. The findings could lead to new approaches for diagnosis and treatment of autism.