The National Alliance for Autism Research has announced the launch of the largest autism study ever conducted.

The study, which is a collaboration between some 170 leading geneticist worldwide, will use Affymetrix DNA microarrays to scan the whole human genome in search of genes that are associated with inherited risk to autism. Approximately 50 academic and research institutes will participate in this public/private research partnership, which will cost in excess of US $2 million.

In the first phase, approximately 6,000 samples of DNA from 1,500 multiplex families (2 children with autism spectrum disorders and their parents) from all over the world will be analysed. The initial results are expected by early 2005.

An ancestry test for dessert?

Shish, a London-based restaurant that specializes in Central Asian cuisine, is offering DNA tests to its diners to find out if they are descended from Genghis Khan.

“The unusual promotion is to mark the Mongolian government's decision to allow citizens to have surnames for the first time since they were banned by the communists in the 1920s” (The Daily Times, Pakistan).

Although the offer was available for only a week, the test is offered by Oxford Ancestors, for £195, as part of their Y-clan analysis. As their web site claims — “there are now around 16 million men who have inherited their Y-chromosomes directly from Genghis Khan.”

“The results will take two months and descendants will win a free meal for two” (BBC News) courtesy of Shish!