Autism Science Foundation Canada

How might inflammation during pregnancy contribute to autism?

This week on Autism Science Minute, Alison Singer discusses new research using brain organoids—mini lab-grown models of the developing human brain—to explore how the inflammatory molecule IL-6 may shape early brain development.

Study link: https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.64898/2026.05.26.728058v1

🎙️ New ASF Weekly Science Podcast

In recognition of Pride Month, this week’s episode explores the intersection of autism and gender diversity, including what research tells us about autism in transgender individuals and why these findings are important for improving care and support.

🎧 Listen now: https://asfpodcast.org/archives/2026

This week's Autism Science Minute answers a question we hear often: Why is brain tissue donation so important to autism research?

Watch to learn how these generous donations help scientists better understand autism and advance future discoveries.

Learn more at autismbrainnet.org.