How these stunning images could change Autism

By Kate Hassett

How these stunning images could change Autism
These incredible images are helping to pave the way for autism research across the globe.

To the naked eye, these images appear to be just that – highly saturated colour and abstract shapes that look more similar to the end of a kaleidoscope than DNA.

However, DNA is what they are, and these images are making headlines by helping doctors  learn more about the disorder.

The DNA sequences are of patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder and have been created for the advocacy and research organisation – Autism Speaks.

Their aim is to create a library of over 10,000 DNA samples of patients with autism and raise funds for the MSSNG Project – which is a groundbreaking collaboration between Google and the charity looking to create the world’s largest genomic database.

Using cloud technology, the MSSNG Project hopes to create an online system that is easily accessible to doctors around the globe at any time.

The photos are captured by using a microscope with the power to magnify up to 1,000 times. The photographer then waits for the water in the DNA to evaporate and crystallise.

“MSSNG has the potential to change the future for millions of people with autism, and this event is designed to heighten it’s awareness,” Liz Feld, president of Autism Speaks, said in a statement.

Whilst it is an interesting concept, having someone’s DNA framed and hung in your living room, these images will have a serious impact on research into the continually expanding field of Autism research.

 

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