The Bak and Lopes family: Tim Bak, Erin Lopes, Evee Bak and Tommy Bak. (Courtesy Evee Bak)

New research compares children with autism with their neurotypical siblings to investigate why some people have the condition. Analyzing the DNA of people with autism and their siblings helps researchers pinpoint genes that may be involved in autism. Studies are also examining sibling gut microbiomes to develop treatments for gastrointestinal problems that affect people with autism.