In the United States, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects one in 36 children, with a 175 percent increase in diagnoses between 2011 and 2022 alone (Feldman Law Group, 2025). Given this growing prevalence, ongoing research and services are critical to support individuals with ASD. Early intervention remains a key focus for understanding, diagnosing, and improving outcomes for those on the spectrum. A major source of funding for autism research comes from the Autism Collaboration, Accountability, Research, Education and Support Act (Autism CARES Act), which allocates billions of dollars in federal funding to support research, education, and training programs, with a significant emphasis on early detection and intervention strategies (Feldman Law Group, 2025). This past fall, lawmakers reauthorized the Act, and it was signed into law in early 2025, just before expiration. The updated legislation dedicates nearly $2 billion over five years to advancing research, education, and programs aimed at improving quality of life for individuals with autism (Feldman Law Group, 2025). The Autism CARES Act is essential for the autistic community, underscoring a national commitment to early intervention and investment in research.
One area of research that directly aligns with the goals of the Autism CARES Act is the work conducted by Dr. Maggie Guy from Loyola University Chicago, titled "Neural correlates of face processing among preschoolers with fragile X syndrome, autism spectrum disorder, autism siblings, and typical development." In collaboration with other researchers, Dr. Guy investigated patterns of face processing in children across a continuum of ASD symptom severity. The study utilized event related potentials (ERPs) to explore early biomarkers that could help distinguish between environmental and genetic factors influencing social communication impairments (Richards, Guy, Hogan, & Roberts, 2024). Since core features of ASD include deficits in social communication and interaction, as well as restricted and repetitive behaviors, the researchers focused on neural responses related to these areas. By identifying early differences in face processing, the study provides valuable insights into the origins of cognitive and social communication challenges (Richards, Guy, Hogan, & Roberts, 2024). Such research is crucial for informing earlier diagnoses and developing targeted early intervention programs.
Dr. Maggie Guy’s research illustrates the practical applications of the Autism CARES Act’s funding priorities. Her use of event related potentials associated with face processing highlights the sustained and unique developmental pathways in individuals with autism, contributing to a better understanding of early brain functioning and improved methods for early testing in children. These findings help inform the development of early diagnostic tools and personalized interventions, directly aligning with the goals of the recently reauthorized Autism CARES Act.
References
Richards, J. E., Guy, M. W., Hogan, A. L., & Roberts, J. E. (2024). Neural correlates of face processing among preschoolers with fragile X syndrome, autism spectrum disorder, autism siblings, and typical development. Autism research: official journal of the International Society for Autism Research, 17(1), 89-108. https://doi.org/10/1002/aur.3045
Feldman Law Group. For people with autism, New Law Signals Renewed Support. FeldmanLawGroup. March 18, 2025. Accessed April 25, 2025. https://www.feldmanlawgroup.com/blog/2025/april/for-people-with-autism-new-law-signals-renewed-s/
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