Genetics can feel complicated, overwhelming, or uncomfortable, but it can also help Autistic people, families, clinicians, and communities better understand autism and related neurodevelopmental conditions.

You’re invited to join the conversation–no judgement, no jargon!

Presented by Precision Medicine in Autism (Prisma), Autism Edmonton, CASA Mental Health, and the University of Alberta, this welcoming and accessible session will explore common questions, real-world healthcare experiences, what genetic testing can and cannot tell us, and what to consider when making decisions about testing.

All are welcome! No science background needed. This session is for anyone who wants to learn, ask questions, and take part in an open conversation. Understanding grows through conversation.

About the Facilitators

Daniel Moreno De Luca, MD, MSc
Dr. Daniel Moreno De Luca is the CASA Mental Health Research Chair, an Associate Professor at the University of Alberta, and Director and Principal Investigator of the PRISMA group. He is a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist specializing in autism, neurodevelopmental conditions, genetics, and precision medicine.

Dener Cardoso Melo, PhD
Dr. Dener Cardoso Melo is an Autistic scientist and speech-language pathologist with research training in psychiatric genomics. He works as a Research Associate with the PRISMA group, where he leads PRISMA’s research program.

Precision Medicine in Autism (PRISMA)
The Precision Medicine in Autism (PRISMA) group is a multidisciplinary initiative at the University of Alberta integrating research, clinical care, education, and community engagement to advance precision medicine in autism and other neurodevelopmental conditions. PRISMA’s work brings together genetics and the lived experiences of Autistic and neurodivergent people to better understand individual differences and support more personalized healthcare approaches.