This group concluded that much remained unknown about autism and bowel disorders and more research was needed in these areas. The MRC supports a number of significant projects that aim to understand the biological and psychological bases of autism. These ongoing studies include the genetic basis of autism, chromosomal abnormality and a study of health records to check if autistic children have histories of other medical problems which could suggest a link. In addition to these genetic and epidemiological studies, the MRC has also recently funded a number of studies of the psychological difficulties of individuals with autism, which should further understanding of the disorder. The MRC also funds a range of other research in developmental psychology which will provide important information which will be of great help in understanding the biological and psychological bases of autism.
Autism is a highly complex developmental disorder.
The precise causes of complex disorders are often difficult to pinpoint and it is widely accepted that, in the case of autism, there are influences from personal and medical histories, as well as genetic factors. At present the nature of these factors and influences are not known.