Brazilian and Portuguese researchers are working on a new project that seeks to understand more about ASD – Autism Spectrum Disorder. This neurological condition affects brain development, behavior, communication and social interactions in many people. In Brazil alone, estimates from the CDC’s Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network suggest that 1 in every 36 children are diagnosed with the disorder, totaling more than 6 million Brazilians who live with the condition daily.
According to the post-PHD in neuroscience, Dr. Fabiano de Abreu Agrela, ASD can manifest itself in different ways and in different degrees of intensity, ranging from milder cases, where the person can lead an independent life, to more severe cases. , where constant care and support are needed. “The characteristics usually appear in the first years of life and persist throughout the person’s life. Some of the common signs include difficulties with verbal and nonverbal communication, repetitive behavior patterns, and restricted interests. This is a complex and multidimensional condition, and each person with autism is unique, with their own characteristics and needs. Therefore, we started researching the topic, not only to bring new data about autism, but to help people who deal with and have their lives impacted by the disorder on a daily basis”, says Fabiano.
The study is being launched by the TEA Research Group (RG-TEA), led by Dr. Fabiano de Abreu Agrela, stepfather of a young autistic man, Dr. Lorrana Gomes, lawyer and mother of a child with ASD, Giovanna Cariry, influencer and autistic, Dr. Roselene Espírito Santo Wagner, PhD and psychologist specialized in autism, Dr. Natalie Banaskiwitz, PhD and psychologist also specialized in autism, Dr. Flávio Henrique, psychiatrist and autistic doctor Dr. Daniel Silveira. The group studies genetic, neurological and behavioral aspects of individuals with ASD, promoting interaction and support for people with the condition. “One of RG-TEA’s main initiatives is the creation of a dedicated online community, where people with ASD, their families and healthcare professionals can come together to share experiences, obtain information and mutual support”, explains Giovanna Cariry.
An innovative aspect of the study is its focus on identity construction for people with ASD. “Recognizing that each person is unique and has their own abilities, interests and challenges, RG-TEA seeks to promote a more inclusive understanding of autism. This includes exploring and valuing the perspectives and contributions of people with ASD to society”, adds Cariry.
For Agrela, the goal is not only to better understand autism from a scientific point of view, but also to provide a safe and welcoming space for people with ASD to feel recognized and valued. “We want to promote a more inclusive view of autism, where differences are celebrated and people are supported on their journey to a full and meaningful life”, adds the scientist.
In addition to providing emotional and social support, RG-TEA also carries out research on various aspects of autism. In 4 months of existence, RG-TEA has already published 4 studies in scientific journals. This includes investigating new diagnostic approaches, effective therapies, and strategies to improve the quality of life for people with ASD and their families. The group of experts, with personal and professional experiences, is launching the project in collaboration with the Heráclito Research and Analysis Center (CPAH) and the GIP project that analyzes ASD through genetics.
The official launch of the project was on April 3, 2024, with the opening of the online community and the beginning of the first research. People interested in getting involved with RG-TEA as community members or research collaborators are encouraged to get in touch and join this innovative initiative to promote understanding and support for autism.
Contact: contato@cpah.com.br
A promising future for autistic children: the hope of the RG-TEA project
The RG-TEA project, designed by a group of renowned experts, including neuroscientists, psychologists, psychiatrists and parents of autistic people, goes beyond scientific research. Its main objective is to offer support and interaction for people with ASD, creating a vibrant and welcoming community.
Combining knowledge and experience:
RG-TEA is the result of the collaboration of:
- Dr. Fabiano de Abreu Agrela has a postdoctoral degree in Neurosciences with a specialization in Genomics. His work is intensified by personal experience as a stepfather of an autistic person, providing unique insight into the genetic and neurobiological interactions of autism.
- Dr. Flávio Henrique S. Nascimento is a prominent psychiatrist with research on the autism spectrum, contributing significantly to the understanding and treatment of autism.
- Dr. Daniel Silveira , a urologist, brings his unique perspective as a healthcare professional and autistic individual to the project, enriching the research with his personal and medical experiences.
- Dr. Lorrana Gomes is a lawyer and mother of an autistic son, dedicated to defending the rights and improving the living conditions of people on the autism spectrum.
- Vanessa BulcãoandGizela Silva are psychologists in Portugal, specializing in autism. Both contribute with their research focused on the development of intervention and support strategies.
- Dr. Natalie Banaskiwitz , PhD in Psychology, specializes in autism, where her research work is fundamental to developing better psychological and therapeutic practices.
- Dr. Leninha Wagner has a PhD in Neuroscience and is a research psychologist whose studies in autism aim to uncover the neural processes that underlie the disorder.
- Jennifer de Paula, journalist and digital marketing specialist, is also the mother of an autistic person, using her skills to increase awareness and understanding of autism.
- Luiza Zappalworks as a research assistant, where her dedication contributes significantly to advances in the group’s studies.
- Gildo Cariry , lawyer and stepfather of an autistic person, brings a legal and personal perspective to the project, focusing on legislation and public policies for autistic people. She is a law student and diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome.
- Giovanna Cariry is an autistic influencer who uses her platform to educate and raise awareness about autism, challenging stereotypes and promoting inclusion.
- Hitty-ko Kamimura , with a background in Pharmacy and Biotechnology, applies her technical knowledge to analyzing genetic reports that help identify predispositions to autism.
- Marcos Souza and Rodrigo Lampugnani , both journalists and parents of autistic people, are dedicated to covering and publicizing topics related to autism, providing visibility and encouraging public dialogue on the subject.
- Carol Rivello , owner of the channel Nossa Vida com Alice, mother of a gifted autistic boy and a girl with Down Syndrome. Carol is one of the icons in children’s entertainment and inclusion.
- Isabella Teixeira , Autistic support level 2. ICD 11: 6A02.2, without intellectual disability but with speech impairment. CPAH research assistant.
- Murillo Lima , Master in Psychology from the University of Minho in Portugal and Degree in Pedagogy. Certified in Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule by the Institut Global d’Atenció Integral del Neurodesenvolupament in Spain.
- Clea Marinho , psychologist, neuroscientist and medical student diagnosed with autism level 2 support;
- Clara Amaral , psychology and physical education student, researcher on autism and therapeutic companion for children with ASD.
Building a better future:
The RG-TEA project is committed to:
- Carrying out cutting-edge research on autism;
- Promotion of interaction and mutual support between people with ASD;
- Creating a vibrant and welcoming community;
- Strengthening autistic identity.
The RG-TEA Community :
The RG-TEA Community is a safe and inclusive virtual space where people with ASD can:
- Share your experiences;
- Find support and guidance;
- Participate in activities and events;
- Connect with others who understand your challenges.
A future with more opportunities: The RG-TEA project has the potential to transform the lives of thousands of autistic children, providing them with:
- Better access to diagnosisandtreatment;
- Greater social and educational inclusion;
- More opportunities for personal and professional development;
- A fuller and happier life.
Ambassador of hope :
Giovanna Cariry, a powerful voice in the autistic community, is the ambassador for the RG-TEA project. Her story of overcoming and her passion for helping other people with ASD inspire everyone who believes in a more inclusive and promising future for everyone.
