Molecular atlas of autism points toward targeted therapies

Scientists published the largest map to date of how autism-linked genetic mutations rewire brain protein networks, using AI and lab-grown brain organoids to identify over 1,800 protein–protein interactions (87% new) and prioritize mutations with AlphaFold. The resulting molecular wiring diagram could shift drug development from targeting individual genes to stabilizing disrupted protein complexes, with three therapeutic programs already underway, though translating findings into treatments will take time and may not apply to all autism forms.