Scientists to discuss latest autism research findings at IMFAR meeting

Conference will bring together more than 1900 scientists from around the world to discuss the latest findings on the causes, treatments and diagnoses of autism

The 10th Annual International Meeting for Autism Research (IMFAR) will host more than 1900 researchers, delegates, autism specialists, and students in the world's largest gathering of researchers and clinicians devoted to a better understanding of autism. The meeting will be held at the Manchester Grand Hyatt from May 12-14, 2011.

Scientists at IMFAR will discuss and disseminate the latest scientific findings focused on the nature, causes and treatment options for autism spectrum disorders. By bringing together both clinicians and research scientists, IMFAR provides a unique opportunity to foster international dialogue across various disciplines and methods. This year's meeting includes more than 900 research and educational presentations, lectures and panel discussions over three days. "This IMFAR, our 10th anniversary meeting, will showcase some of the most rigorous and exciting science presented at any IMFAR meeting. Studies dealing with topics ranging from genetics to environmental factors, from medical co-morbidities to early intervention will be presented during the three-day meeting," said David G. Amaral, Ph.D. President of INSAR and Research Director for the UC Davis M.I.N.D. Institute. "It is exciting that a great many of the participants are students who are immersing themselves in the collaborative, interdisciplinary science that will undoubtedly lead to understanding, prevention and more effective treatments of autism spectrum disorders"

A press conference will be held one day before the start of the conference on Wednesday May 11 at 11 a.m. PT at the Manchester Grand Hyatt. At the press conference, scientists will discuss key studies to be presented during IMFAR including how autism affects parental employment and earnings; the first study of long-distance connections in the autistic brain in the first years of life when the behavioral symptoms begin; the potential role of prenatal conditions on autism including maternal diabetes, flu and fever, and cesarean birth; and a double-blind trial of N-Acetylcysteine in children to determine its effect on behavioral deficits; and the behavioral and health profile of autism in later life.

Press Conference participants will include:

• David Amaral, Ph.D., President, the International Society for Autism Research
• Eric Courchesne, Ph.D., UCSD
• Antonio Hardan, M.D., Stanford University School of Medicine
• David Mandell, Sc.D., Chairman of IMFAR Program Committee
• Irva Hertz-Picciotto, Ph.D., UC Davis
• Marsha Malick Seltzer, Ph.D., Weisman Center, University of Wisconsin