Connected conditions: A new study describes developmental pathways from tuberous sclerosis complex to autism. In a cohort of 125 children with tuberous sclerosis, followed for 10 years, 40 percent had an autism diagnosis, which was associated with more cortical tubers and infantile spasms. By identifying aspects of tuberous sclerosis complex in early life that lead to autism diagnosis, the work points to shared mechanisms between the conditions and may inform future therapeutics.

Autism research spotted this week:

• “Advancing mental health and well-being of Nigerian children through public health screening for fragile X disorders (CHAMP-FX): Protocol of a prospective multicentre screening study with longitudinal follow-up” PLOS One
• “Trump signs order on childhood vaccines while making unproved links between jabs and autism” BMJ
• “Neurocrine Biosciences rare disease drug possibly tied to safety issues, experts say” STAT