Collaboration to test theories concerning the mechanism of childhood autism.

2004 MAY 6 - (NewsRx.com & NewsRx.net) -- Target Discovery Inc. and PrecisionMed Inc. have entered into a research collaboration designed to test competing theories concerning the mechanism of childhood autism.

Specifically, the research is designed to pinpoint the source of certain opioid-like peptides that have been observed at elevated levels in autistic children. Target Discovery and PrecisionMed's goal is to determine whether and how metabolic factors play a role in the development of autism.

Under the terms of the agreement, PrecisionMed will be responsible for collecting samples from accurately characterized clinical cases of autism patients, while Target Discovery will use its metabolomics and systems biology modeling technology to analyze these samples. Financial terms were not disclosed.

"This collaboration will utilize Target Discovery's MetaSIRMS metabolomics technology and PrecisionMed's skill in study design and execution to determine the source of certain unusual opioid-like peptides whose levels are elevated in many autistic children," said Jeffrey N. Peterson, chief executive officer of Target Discovery.

"It was Target Discovery's systems biology approach incorporating mathematical modeling and simulation of certain observed disease pathology that led to our novel study strategy that is designed to resolve this 20-year clinical debate.

"An improved understanding of the mechanism of autism would provide physicians and families important information towards improving treatment and possible prevention strategies."

"We are excited at the prospect of making a significant contribution to the understanding and management of childhood autism, and are pleased to be teaming with Target Discovery's innovative technologies on this important study," said John S. Flax, MD, president and chief executive officer of PrecisionMed.