The purpose of this study is to better understand the relationship between autism spectrum disorder (ASD), the immune system, and autoimmune conditions. We are investigating whether autoimmune disorders occur more frequently in autistic adults and their biological family members and whether immune-related factors may help identify clinically meaningful subgroups within autism. Participation includes informed consent, questionnaires about medical history, autoimmune conditions, behavior, and autism-related characteristics, intelligence and language assessments, and a blood sample to measure markers related to immune function and inflammation. Biological family members may also complete a questionnaire about their own medical and autoimmune history. The study can be completed remotely. Assessments may be completed at the Lurie Center or remotely when appropriate, and blood samples can be collected at the Lurie Center, another Mass General Brigham location, or through mobile phlebotomy at the participant’s home when available.
Participants must: 1. Be male and 18–50 years old. 2. Have a diagnosis of autistic disorder based on DSM-IV-TR criteria and ASD Level 2 or 3 based on DSM-5 criteria. 3. Have a nonverbal IQ of 35 or higher. 4. Have a study partner who is a biological parent or, if a parent is deceased or unable to participate, a full sibling. Additional eligibility criteria will be reviewed by study staff
03/03/2024 - 02/01/2027
MGH Lurie Center for Autism
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