A single gene, OTUD7A, may account for most of the features seen in people missing a segment of chromosome 15 known as 15q13.3.

A cannabis gel may ease features of fragile X syndrome, omega fatty acids show promise for autism in two trials, and oxytocin reinforces social behaviors through the brain’s reward pathway.

Mutations that appear in only some of the body’s cells contribute to autism in about 4 percent of people with the condition.

Scientists this week announced the release of nearly 7,000 whole-genome sequences from a collection of families that each have one child with autism.

People with autism aren’t easily surprised, the social camouflage some girls and women with autism use may preclude diagnosis, and autism-related genes are rooted deep in human ancestry.

About 8 percent of non-inherited mutations in people with autism occur in only some of the body’s cells, according to a study of 20,000 people.

Autism runs in families, but the search for inherited risk factors has come up short — until now.

Two candidate genes have risen to the top, and may help scientists understand what autism really is.