Experts working on the Autism Genome Project, which is part-funded by the charity Autism Speaks, have identified a number of rare genetic conditions linked with autism.
The discovery raises fresh hope of developing drugs and treatments for the condition and diagnosing children at an earlier age.
The Autism Genome Project is the largest study into genetics and autism, and involves scientists from around the world.
The genetic variations discovered were 20 per cent more frequent in children with autism than those without.
Andy Shih, Autism Speaks vice-president for scientific affairs, said: "Piece by piece, we are discovering genetic mutations that can cause autism. These findings will provide answers for families about what contributed to their autism.
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