MARAbio Systems (MARAbio), a precision immunology company focused on Maternal Autoantibody Related Autism (MARA), has launched the MAR-Autism Test, the first blood test to identify maternal autoantibodies that cause a prevalent subtype of autism. 

 

MARA is estimated to affect up to 1 in 5 individuals with autism and is linked to both moderate and severe symptoms, according to peer-reviewed research. MARA occurs when maternal autoantibodies cross the placenta, altering brain development and triggering autistic symptoms. 

 

The MAR-Autism Test represents more than 20 years of research at the UC Davis MIND Institute by Judy Van de Water, MARAbio's Founder & Chief Scientific Advisor. "The identification of these distinct pathogenic autoantibodies represents a breakthrough in the detection of autism in a current or future child," the company said.

 

Clinical testing shows the MAR-Autism Test achieves 99% or greater specificity for each autoantibody combination, minimizing false positives. Certain autoantibody patterns indicate a 99% risk of autism in a child, also with at least 99% specificity.

 

The test is now available to US healthcare providers for women with a previously diagnosed autistic child, enabling earlier evaluation for younger siblings or prior to future pregnancies. It is also accessible for mothers of children showing signs of autism. MARAbio is currently validating the test for broader use, though it is not approved for use during pregnancy.

 

Michael Paul, MARAbio's President & CEO, called the test "a transformative advancement in the detection of autism, including the likelihood of autism in a future child."

 

"Thanks to the pioneering scientific research of Dr Van de Water and UC Davis, and the work of the MARAbio team, millions of families and their healthcare providers now have access to our blood test, which can identify a scientifically proven biological cause of autism that is significantly more prevalent than any single cause of syndromic autism, including Fragile X. 

 

"This positions MAR-Autism as one of the most substantial biological causes of autism identified to date. Our team is now working to expand public awareness of MARA and our MAR-Autism Test, while also broadening the test's availability and use among the general population."

 

Van de Water added, "With increased attention to autism and the societal demand to identify the underlying causes, many sets of hopeful eyes are following our work. We launched MARAbio to help provide scientific answers and peace of mind for mothers and families, and to give their children an opportunity for the best possible outcomes."

 

Autism researcher Richard E. Frye highlighted the impact for families: "With MARAbio's test now available, particularly for those families already touched by autism, we now have access to meaningful insights into this particular and prevalent cause of autism, including the likelihood of MARA in future children. It's an exciting advancement that brings science and compassionate healthcare together in a truly impactful way."