Negev Autism Center
From risk factors through biological mechanisms to precise phenotypic manifestations of autism
The Negev Autism Center Hub brings together researchers from diverse scientific and clinical disciplines to study data from the Negev regional autism database, which comprises comprehensive clinical, biological, and epidemiological data on autism within the ethnically unique population of the Negev. Its goal is to advance autism research through “connecting the etiological dots,” from risk factors through biological mechanisms to precise phenotypic manifestations of autism.
For more information, please contact the hub coordinators:
- Dr. Idan Menashe, Public Health
- Dr. Gal Meiri, Psychiatry
- Dr. Ilan Dinstein, Psychology, Cognition & Brain sciences
Goals
The main goal is to create a platform for research collaborations that will focus on “connecting the etiological dots": from risk factors through biological mechanisms to precise phenotypic manifestations of autism. Results of these studies will help advance autism research and will provide a firm basis for collaborations of other research institutes worldwide. Specific objectives are:
- To expand the regional database in number of cases and variety of measures.
- To create a working team dedicated to achieving the HUB's goals.
- To support research collaborations on various aspects of autism.
- To submit grant proposals by research groups with shared research interests, based on available data and existing expertise in these groups.
- To promote clinical and research activities based on the existing data in the regional database.
- To provide a platform linking families with autism to care givers and scientists.
- To create a special education program about autism that will be integrated into different teaching programs at BGU and SUMC.
- To translate research findings into clinical practices that will be implemented in the community to reduce health disparities in autism.
