Doctors found a molecule, effective in the treatment of autism

Scientists at Johns Hopkins University and MassGeneral Hospital for Children during a small study has found evidence that daily treatment with sulforaphane, a molecule found in broccoli, cauliflower, may improve some symptoms of autism.

According to the researchers, the participants received a daily dose of sulforaphane showed improvement in both behavioral and communication assessments throughout the month. But doctors emphasize that the results of this pilot experiment should be confirmed in larger studies before experts can draw conclusions about the therapeutic benefit of the drug.

The researchers observed 44 young men aged 13-age of 27 who have been diagnosed with various forms of autism. Participants were randomized to receive a daily dose of sulforaphane from broccoli or a placebo. Participants were assessed using standard measurements of behavior and social interaction. Treatment was discontinued after 18 weeks, and 22 participants were conducted an interim test after 4 weeks.

According to Kanwaljit Singh, the average score was considerably better in the 26 participants receiving sulforaphane than the 14 who received a placebo. Overall, 17 of the 26 participants who received the drug had improvement in behavior, social interaction and calmness.