Over-the-counter supplements could be effective for those suffering from a rare form of the disorder.
Researchers are studying a type of autism with epilepsy.
The testing involves supplements called branched chained amino acids, which break down proteins.
Mutations can occur when proteins vital to brain chemistry are processed too fast. That can result in a severe form of autism.
Mice with the condition responded to treatment with dietary supplements readily available at health food stores.
The form of autism is not widespread and doesn't account for most cases of the disorder.
The study is published in the online journal Science.
