Family ties

Recent articles

How ordinary people influence autism research

MIND Institute

The builders: How parents shaped autism research

A group of savvy parents jump-started autism research in California, but they also set the research agenda.

By Jocelyn Wiener
5 October 2016 | 21 min read
Someone writes descriptions on gridded paper, the paper is in the shape of a child's silhouette.

The innovators: How families launch their own autism studies

Some parents are starting ‘N-of-1’ studies for autism, but their efforts don’t always get taken seriously.

By Carrie Arnold
28 September 2016 | 20 min read
Two parents look at a frame held by a mysterious salesman-like hand. Within the frame, the picture of a glorious horizon. The tone suggests that not everything is as it seems.

The seekers: Why parents try fringe therapies for autism

Many parents resort to unproven — even dangerous — alternative treatments for their children’s autism. What drives them?

By Alisa Opar
21 September 2016 | 23 min read
Image of pots and pans hanging from the ceiling. This is meant to be a visual pun, because marijuana is also known as 'pot'.

The pioneers: How parents are experimenting with marijuana for autism

Meet the backyard marijuana growers and home chemists who are rushing in where scientists fear to tread.

By Jessica Wright
14 September 2016 | 20 min read

Explore more from The Transmitter

Research image of fibroblasts creating a seal that separates the blood vessels in the choroid plexus from the rest of the brain.

Newly identified barrier cells seal off choroid plexus from CSF, rest of brain

A long-overlooked layer of fibroblasts exists inside the choroid plexus of mice and humans, adding complexity to the area’s compartmentalization.

By Claudia López Lloreda
3 April 2026 | 4 min read
Digital model of a fly next to a digital model of a nematode.

‘Digital sphinx’ raises questions about connectome models

The sphinx, with a worm’s brain and a fly’s body, illustrates the potential pitfalls of using deep-learning techniques to model biological processes.

By Natalia Mesa
2 April 2026 | 5 min read
Astrocytes in a mouse brain.

Taking a closer look at astrocytes and autism

These glial cells are increasingly linked to neurodevelopmental conditions and the regulation of social behaviors and anxiety.

By The Transmitter
2 April 2026 | 2 min read