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Dr. Heather Way

2025 Presentation(s):

Using Genomics to Treat Complex Chronic Conditions and Improve Immunity in ASD Children

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In this session, Dr. Heather Way will share key insights from her ongoing research into ASD genomics and microbiome sequencing as they relate to complex chronic conditions affecting children on the autism spectrum. Conditions such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), mold-related illness, PANDAS, and long COVID will be discussed in detail, with a focus on the genetic variants (SNPs) associated with these conditions.

Dr. Way will explain the critical interactions between genes and the gut microbiome, highlighting how disruptions in gut health can exacerbate chronic conditions. Importantly, she will provide parents with evidence-based, bio-individualized treatment approaches to support their children’s immune function, gut health, and overall well-being.

This presentation will empower parents with practical tools and knowledge to navigate complex health issues and improve quality of life for children on the spectrum.

The Genomics Underpinning Chronic Illnesses Associated with Autism

The presentation will begin In:

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Abstract
Dr. Heather Way will present an in-depth exploration of specialist nutrigenomics in clinical practice to address chronic health conditions commonly seen in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). These include depression, immune dysregulation syndromes such as PANDAS, mold-related illnesses, and long COVID. This presentation will examine the unexpected intersection between genes associated with immune function and those linked to autism, providing clinicians with actionable insights into gene-environment interactions. Dr. Way will also share her findings on the depleted gut microbial diversity observed in the ASD population, identifying missing species, the significance of overgrowth patterns, and how vitamin and mineral deficiencies further impact gut health and immune resilience. The complex interplay between gene expression and gut microbiome function will be a focal point. Dr. Way will highlight evidence-based interventions, including specific prebiotics, probiotics, and evidence based strategies to regulate gene variants. She will provide practical guidance for clinicians to develop individualized treatment plans aimed at restoring balance and improving overall health outcomes for children on the spectrum. Key Learning Objectives:
  • Understand how to modulate gene expression to favorably impact immune function.
  • Develop bio-individualized clinical strategies using specialist ASD genomics and microbiome sequencing data.
Speaker Bio:

Dr. Heather Way completed her PhD in Molecular Pathology and a Master’s in Molecular Physiology at the University of Queensland, Australia. Dr. Way brings a unique combination of expertise as a leading autism researcher, clinician, and parent to two fully recovered, now adult sons. It was her sons’ diagnoses of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and ADHD that inspired her to pivot her scientific career towards autism genomics research over 14 years ago.

Dr. Way is the Founder, Director, and Head of Research at The Australian Centre for Genomic Analysis (TACGA), a pioneering institute specializing in genomic solutions for autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, gastrointestinal disorders, and chronic infections such as mold illness and PANS/PANDAS.

Her groundbreaking work has contributed to the development of IBS and ASD-specific microbiome sequencing tools, as well as neurodevelopmental nutrigenomic tools. These tools allow for the identification of critical underlying issues and enable targeted, evidence-based interventions to help individuals with chronic conditions achieve their full potential.

Dr. Way is widely recognized for her contributions to the field, translating cutting-edge genomics research into practical strategies for clinicians, parents, and individuals navigating the complexities of autism and related chronic health conditions.

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