(What is autism?). What is the answer to why some children are affected? Researchers say epigenetics could provide a key answer to our questions. “Epigenetics is the mechanism that turns individual genes on and off in a cell” (Hamilton). Our epigenetic genes form together as a group during a woman's pregnancy which forms the baby. When these genes turn on and off, some cells become heart cells while others become brain cells, essentially mixing up the organization of the genes. The cause of this mixing may be the result of certain substances the mother exposed the child to during pregnancy. The most vulnerable time for environmental influences affecting the child in the womb occurs in the first two weeks after conception (Hamilton). The diagnostic process is rather complex and continues to grow with new technologies. Scientists are finding they are able to uncover early evidence of autism by studying children's brain waves. This may sound like science fiction, but evidence shows that an electroencephalography or otherwise known as an EEG can show how autism affects that specific child's brain and can even reveal different types of therapies that would be beneficial for this child. With this new technology, doctors may be able to detect the early stages of autism before the age of one! The benefits of diagnosing a child early could help improve their later adult life and also reduce the side effects associated with autism (Hamilton). A person who is diagnosed with autism may have a very different case than another diagnosed person. Each case of disorder is unique. Asperger's syndrome is sometimes called a type of autism...... middle of paper...... receptors on brain cells called mGluR5 receptors” (Hamilton). This drug has had great success in mice and is currently being tested in humans. Results are shown to show improvements with just a single dose. This is a revolutionary modern drug that may be able to reduce autism showing minimal effects and could be revolutionary in some cases (Hamilton). Autism is a widely known disorder that often causes many misconceptions. Groundbreaking studies and research are being done to allow the typical person to better understand the condition of this disorder. Autism affects many people, but not everyone affected allows their diagnosis to take their life. The functionality of this disorder should not be ignored or misunderstood. There is more hope for autistic people to help them lead more prosperous and functional lives..