NIH launches $50M probe into causes of autism; 3D-printed glass: A promising bone substitute; air pollution linked to childhood myopia – Morning Medical Update

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NIH launches $50M investigation into causes of autism

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has announced a $50 million Autism Data Science Initiative (ADSI) to investigate the causes and rising prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Funding will support 13 projects that combine genomic, clinical, behavioral and environmental data, including exposures like pesticides, maternal nutrition and perinatal complications.

The announcement came on the same day that Health and Human Services (HHS) announced a link between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and ASD. The claim was criticized by several major physician advocacy groups, saying the announcement was made with “no credible body of evidence.” Autism is now diagnosed in one in 31 U.S. children.

3D-printed glass: A promising bone substitute?

Scientists have created a 3D-printable bioactive glass that could one day replace damaged bone, according to a study published in ACS Nano. The material, designed without toxic additives and hardened at relatively low temperatures, supported strong bone cell growth in rabbits, outperforming plain glass and sustaining growth longer than a commercial substitute.

Air pollution linked to childhood myopia

A study of nearly 30,000 children in Tianjin, China, suggests poor air quality may contribute to rising rates of childhood myopia, or short-sightedness. Published in PNAS Nexus, the research found that, while severe myopia was mostly tied to genetics, mild cases were influenced by modifiable factors, with nitrogen dioxide and fine particle pollution standing out. The effect was strongest in primary school children, and researchers say cleaner air could indirectly protect vision by encouraging more outdoor activity and reducing eye inflammation and stress.