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Ushering in the second season of Beyond the Endpoint, Lauren Franz, MBChB, MPH, interim director of the Duke Center for Autism and Brain Development, joins Manesh Patel and Emily O'Brien for an in-depth conversation about autism research, care, and community. Franz explains what autism is as a neurodevelopmental spectrum condition and how our understanding of it has evolved significantly over the last decade. The discussion examines the intricate interplay between genetic and environmental factors that may contribute to the development of autism, and explores current intervention approaches. The hosts and guest also discuss the groundbreaking research at Duke University that employs artificial intelligence to analyze medical records for earlier detection of autism. This approach could help shorten the time between when autism can be diagnosed and when it is typically identified. Throughout the episode, Franz stresses the importance of involving the autism community in research and decision-making processes.
Related Links
- Autism Society of America - National advocacy and resource organization
- Autism Society of North Carolina - State organization providing resources intended to improve lives and educate communities
- Duke Center for Autism and Brain Development - An NIH Autism Center of Excellence conducting research and providing clinical services at Duke University.
- Autism Spectrum Disorder: Updated AAP Guidelines - screening and treatment guidelines for autism
- YouTube Video: What is the Autism Spectrum? - Quick learner video about autism across the spectrum
- Duke Research: AI for Early Autism Detection - Learn about the AURORA study, which employs machine learning for autism screening
About Our Guest
Lauren Franz, MBChB, MPH, is an associate professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences and associate research professor of global health at Duke University, where she serves as interim director of the Duke Center for Autism and Brain Development. A board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist, Franz's research focuses on improving access to evidence-based autism services and advancing early detection through innovative approaches. She has served as principal investigator, co-investigator, and medical director on multiple clinical trials. Most recently, she collaborated on a study that utilized artificial intelligence and machine learning to analyze medical records, aiming to better understand developmental trajectories and predict the likelihood of an autism diagnosis. Franz leads the Dissemination and Outreach Core in the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development-funded Duke Autism Center of Excellence program, where she supports the career development of trainees and facilitates communication between scientific and autism communities.
Learn More About Dr. Franz