Petrus de Vries is founding director of the Centre for Autism Research in Africa (CARA) at the University of Cape Town in South Africa, and current president of the International Society for Autism Research.
Petrus de Vries
Founding director
Centre for Autism Research in Africa, University of Cape Town
From this contributor
Autism research is becoming more diverse but not yet more global
Hosting the International Society for Autism Research annual meeting—which starts tomorrow—in Australia takes a step in that direction, making it easier for researchers, clinicians and advocates from the Western Pacific Region to participate.
Autism research is becoming more diverse but not yet more global
By
Petrus de Vries
14 May 2024 | 5 min read
What kind of autism research should we do, and where should we do it?
Researchers at INSAR 2023 need to discuss these questions and remember that the purpose of research may be different for different communities.
What kind of autism research should we do, and where should we do it?
By
Petrus de Vries
3 May 2023 | 6 min read
How to offer support for young autistic children in South Africa
Coaching caregivers in early-intervention strategies may be the most effective way to help young autistic children in South Africa.
How to offer support for young autistic children in South Africa
By
Lauren Franz, Petrus de Vries
22 January 2019 | 6 min read
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Microglia implicated in infantile amnesia
The glial cells could explain the link between maternal immune activation and autism-like behaviors in mice, but methodological challenges prompt questions about the new evidence.
Microglia implicated in infantile amnesia
The glial cells could explain the link between maternal immune activation and autism-like behaviors in mice, but methodological challenges prompt questions about the new evidence.
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Lauren Schneider
12 February 2026 | 5 min read
Oligodendrocytes need mechanical cues to myelinate axons correctly
Without the mechanosensor TMEM63A, the cells cannot deposit the appropriate amount of insulation, according to a new study.
Oligodendrocytes need mechanical cues to myelinate axons correctly
Without the mechanosensor TMEM63A, the cells cannot deposit the appropriate amount of insulation, according to a new study.
By
Calli McMurray
11 February 2026 | 5 min read
Modern AI is simply no match for the complexity likely required for harboring consciousness, says Jaan Aru
He argues that our brain’s computations are of a completely different nature than any artificial intelligence because they take place across many spatial and temporal scales and are inextricably entwined with biological materials.
Modern AI is simply no match for the complexity likely required for harboring consciousness, says Jaan Aru
He argues that our brain’s computations are of a completely different nature than any artificial intelligence because they take place across many spatial and temporal scales and are inextricably entwined with biological materials.
By
Paul Middlebrooks
11 February 2026 | 1 min read