Brain Treatment Center of Dallas

Dr. Spencer Miller MD

How New EEG Research Can Help Kids with Autism

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Child getting EEG for autism treatment

For parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), finding treatments that truly help can be difficult. But new brain research is giving families fresh hope.

Dr. Spencer Miller, our medical director, co-authored a new study that found a unique brainwave pattern in children with autism. This groundbreaking study connects this brainwave pattern to variations in the MTHFR gene, a key player in brain development and function.

This discovery advances our understanding of autism and opens the door to more personalized and effective treatments.

EEG Research and Autism: What it Can Mean for Your Child

An EEG (electroencephalogram) is a simple, noninvasive tool that measures brain activity. It helps doctors understand how the brain works and identify areas needing support. The study found a unique 4.5-Hz rhythm in the brain activity of children with autism, particularly in specific brain regions.

This pattern is strongly linked to two common MTHFR gene variants (C677T and A1298C). These variants are involved in folate metabolism—a process critical for neural development. The findings highlight the following:

  • 80% of children with this brainwave pattern had one or both MTHFR variants.
  • The study included children aged 2–12 from diverse ethnic backgrounds, supporting its broad relevance.

Currently, diagnosing genetic factors in autism often requires blood tests. Unfortunately, these tests can be stressful for children, especially those with sensory sensitivities. This new method offers a non-invasive way to screen for MTHFR gene variations using a simple EEG.

Why Is This Discovery Important?

For families navigating autism, these findings pave the way for more targeted and personalized care, such as:

  • Tailored nutritional support. Supplements like folate and vitamin B12 may help lessen the effects of MTHFR variations and support brain health.
  • Early interventions. Identifying children with this genetic marker can lead to earlier, more effective therapies.
  • A deeper understanding of ASD. This research sheds light on how genetics and brain activity interact, offering new insights into the condition.

How The EEG Guides MeRT Treatment for Autism

At the Brain Treatment Center, Dr. Miller’s team uses MeRT to help kids with autism. MeRT combines an EEG with gentle magnetic stimulation to improve how the brain works.

While this recent study highlights the importance of the EEG, we have used it for years to guide treatment. Here’s how the EEG works in MeRT treatment:

  1. Mapping the brain: EEG shows a child’s unique brain activity, highlighting areas that need help.
  2. Customizing treatment: We adjust the magnetic stimulation to each child’s needs based on their EEG results.
  3. Tracking progress: Regular EEGs show improvements and guide ongoing therapy.

The 4.5-Hz brainwave pattern discovered in the study is another way EEG helps uncover how autism affects the brain and guides treatment.

EEG Research and Autism: What This Means for Your Family

By focusing on each child’s unique brain activity and genetic profile, families can see meaningful progress and improved quality of life. If your child has been diagnosed with autism, this research offers hope for:

  • A brighter future. As science advances, tools like this will help children with autism reach their full potential through early and effective care.
  • Better screening tools. Non-invasive EEGs may soon simplify the process of identifying genetic factors in autism.
  • Personalized treatment plans. Knowing whether your child has an MTHFR variant could open the door to targeted nutritional and therapeutic interventions.

Dr. Miller and his team are committed to helping children with autism thrive. At the Brain Treatment Center, we use MeRT to provide personalized care and give children the best chance to unlock their potential.

Contact us today to learn how MeRT can help your child.

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