The goal at the Autism Research Centre (ARC) is to study and understand the biomedical causes of autism spectrum disorders. They are constantly seeking to develop new methods for evaluation and intervention. The group is a collaborative effort focused on moving forward with their mission.Overall, the ARC has six research programs focused on autism spectrum disorders. The fall into the following categories:
- Perception and Cognition
- Screening and Diagnosis
- Intervention
- Hormones
- Genetics and Proteomics
- Neuroscience
Currently, they are running the following projects:
Brain Scan Project
Researchers are currently looking for volunteers for a new study that will investigate brain structure and connections in those with high functioning autism. The process involves filling out questionnaires, completing tasks, and MRI, and a DNA test. The researchers are also requesting DNA samples from the parents and want to know more about their development as a child.
Toddler Projects
Parents of autistic children between the ages of 18 and 36 months also have a study available. Researchers are looking to develop a new questionnaire to help screen for Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC) in order to lower the age at which autism is actually diagnosed.
Another toddler project involves toddlers who have older siblings who have been diagnosed with autism. Researchers want to study how children develop throughout their early childhood and is focused on those between 12 and 24 months. The children will be observed at play and while participating in age-appropriate activities.
For more information on these particular studies, visit the Autism Research Centre. In addition, there is a new study on the connection between the measles vaccine and autism.
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