Previous studies have shown that inherited mutations in a gene (called TMLHE) that is required for carnitine biosynthesis are strongly associated with risk for development of autism - spectrum disorders, but the basis for that association has been unclear — until now. (sciencedaily.com)
There is also credible evidence that they increase the risk of birth defects, infertility, and have been linked to the development of autism. (catchingseeds.com)
Prenatal exposure to elevated levels of male sex hormones may play a role in the development of autism, results of a new study suggest (scientificamerican.com)