Battelle, an independent research and development organization, has developed a low-cost urine test to identify potential early biomarker for autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

The company in collaboration with the University of Washington's School of Public Health evaluated the levels of porphyrins in the urine of ASD children to determine if certain levels of specific porphyrins could predict ASD.

Battelle Health and Life Sciences president Barbara Kunz said, "The world-class work performed by Drs. Heyer and Echeverria in collaboration with Professor Woods represent Battelle's capacity and resolve to advance the diagnosis and treatment of health threats worldwide."

The detection of porphyrins in a urine test allows for a rapid screening test for identifying young children at a high risk for ASD, the Battelle said.