A new study has revealed that more than 70 genes are closely linked to autism, as well as a link between autism and more than 250 other genes.

According to Health, this study is the largest of its kind to date, with more than 150,000 researchers and 20,000 people with autism participating in it.

In the study, the researchers found that genes often associated with developmental delays tend to be active in the early development of neurons, while autism-related genes tend to play a role in more mature neurons.

They continued, that among individuals with schizophrenia, genes strongly associated with autism were more likely to be associated with genes that increase a person's risk of developing schizophrenia.

"These analyzes suggest that there are common genetic risk factors for autism and other neuropsychiatric disorders," said study co-author Joseph Buxbaum, director of the Seaover Autism Center at Mount Sinai University in New York.

Buxbaum noted that autism has many genetic mutations that drive it, and therefore genetic testing is justified, not only for the benefit of families and individuals at risk of developing autism spectrum disorder, but also to advance the development of treatments.