- One of the largest ever research projects finding new ways to develop drugs for autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
- The largest single grant for autism in the world and Europe's largest study of any mental disorder.
- An unprecedented international collaboration between academia, industry and patient organisations.
About autism
Autism is a lifelong, developmental disability affecting how a person communicates with and relates to other people, and how they experience the world around them. Autism affects around 1 in 100 people in Europe and tackling the condition has been constantly challenging for researchers.
The causes of autism are not well understood and there are no effective treatments for the core symptoms. Research is hampered by a lack of accurate testing tools and there is no platform to test new treatments. Despite these limitations, newly discovered genetic risk factors for ASD provide unique opportunities to improve this situation.
European partnerships
For the first time ever, EU-AIMS led by King's College London brings together a network of academics, industry and patient organisations, built around 13 European expert hubs running clinical studies and trials.
Fostering links with a wide range of stakeholders, we have joined forces with Autism Speaks - the world’s leading autism research charity to capture the voices of those affected by autism. We also work with the small to medium businesses that play a critical role in developing testing software, while consulting with EFPIA - The European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations, representing organisations involved in researching and developing new medicines for ASD.
World-leading innovation
By harnessing the many benefits of working together, we aim to provide a long-lasting structure to develop new research and analytical tools, test new treatments and rapidly translate cutting-edge research into clinical practice. Our ultimate aim is to set new standards for clinical development and pave the way for new drug discovery, clinical trials and training opportunities.
We hope to make world-leading improvements in medicine and in turn make a real and positive difference to the lives of people with autism spectrum disorder and those working to support and treat them.