Autism research advances: rapamycin reverses mouse symptoms, AI video tools target language learning

Researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles reported that a single dose of the immunosuppressant rapamycin eliminated many autism‑like behaviors in mice within two hours. The treated mice showed reduced neuronal hyperactivity, lower seizure risk, decreased sensory sensitivity and fewer repetitive actions, although the effect was temporary.

In Canada, a team led by psychiatrist Laurent Mottron is developing an AI‑driven platform called Mozart that analyzes YouTube video usage by non‑verbal autistic children. By identifying each child’s specific interests, the system aims to recommend videos that promote language acquisition. The pilot involves five children aged three to five, with data processed by researchers at the École de technologie supérieure.