1 out of every 35 people are now being diagnosed with being on the Autism spectrum. The theories vary on why this is so, including chemicals we are exposed to early on and how we feed our young children. Although this has been debunked, and a new study will begin shortly to prove without a doubt that vaccines are not part of the reason, we should be comfortable with the science and the studies that debunk it. CBS News recently reported on a new study that has shown that a drug used for side effects from chemo, may help children with the condition. Leucovorin, an inexpensive, generic drug derived from folic acid, also known as folate or vitamin B9 is, according to Dr. Richard Frye, a pediatric neurologist who was interviewed by CBS effective to help some autistic children speak better. While he is not suggesting the drug is a cure, the link between Autism and Folic Acid is becoming better understood, and since the drug is derived from folic acid, Leucovorin helps some children with Autism to speak. The theory behind the drug’s use for autism postulates that some children have a blockage in the transport of folic acid into the brain that potentially contributes to some of the neurological problems associated with the disorder. Leucovorin bypasses that blockage and can help some autistic kids improve their ability to speak. Drug trials of leucovorin to treat autism have shown positive effects on speech. Scientists are beginning to understand that Cerebral folate deficiency (CFD), or a deficiency of folate in the brain may be an autoimmune problem rather than a folate deficiency problem. Mothers to be are given supplements while pregnant that include folate. Children who develop autism disorder seem to have normal folate blood levels but low levels in the spinal fluid. Ramaekers and Quadros, researchers behind the therory found that autoantibodies against the folate receptor alpha (FR⍺), which transports folic acid from the blood into the brain and the placenta, might cause abnormal fetal brain development and some autism spectrum disorders. Treatment with the drug has minimal side effects but may improve interactions and speech abilities with autistic children. Find out more from the CBS web page using the link below Parents say son with autism was nonverbal until trying an off-label drug that treats chemo side effects