(What is autism?). What is the answer to why some children are affected? Researchers say epigenetics could be a key answer to our questions. “Epigenetics is the mechanism that turns individual genes on and off in a cell” (Hamilton). Our epigenetic genes come together in a cluster during a woman's pregnancy that forms the baby. When these certain genes turn on and off, this causes some cells to become heart cells while others become brain cells, essentially mixing up the organization of the genes. The cause of this mix could be the result of some substances to which the mother exposed the baby during pregnancy. The most vulnerable time for environmental influences to affect the baby while in the womb occurs in the first two weeks after conception (Hamilton). The diagnosis process is quite complex and continues to grow with new technologies. Scientists are finding that they can uncover the first 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 may even uncover different types of therapies that would be beneficial for that child. With this new technology, doctors may be able to detect the early stages of autism before the child turns one! The benefits of diagnosing a child early could help improve his or her later adult life and also reduce the side effects that accompany autism (Hamilton). Someone who is diagnosed with autism may have a very different case than someone else who is diagnosed. Each case of the disorder is unique. Asperger syndrome is sometimes called a type of autism bu...... middle of paper ......receptors on brain cells known as mGluR5 receptors” (Hamilton). This drug has been extremely successful in mice and is now being tested in humans. The results have been proven to show improvements even with just one dose. This is a revolutionary modern drug that may be able to reduce autism to show minimal effects and could be revolutionary in some cases (Hamilton). Autism is a widely known disorder that often has many different misconceptions. Groundbreaking studies and research are underway so that the typical person can better understand the condition of this disorder. Autism affects many, but not all sufferers allow the diagnosis to consume their lives. The functionality of this disorder should not remain undocumented or misunderstood. There is more hope out there for autistics to help them live more prosperous and functioning lives.