A Research towards developing a diagnostic tool and cure for ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorders)

“What an illuminating experience!”: Yes, that is what I say after 20 years of running a business that saves lives, be it by managing a deadly substance like Asbestos or by setting up a research lab to combat Autism, a life-long disability.

I was born in Iran and came to the UK alone in 1977 at the age of sixteen to further my education. It was while studying for degree that I read about asbestos. I learned that while asbestos was a tough & useful material, it could also have a deadly effect on health if not managed appropriately. I joined Asbestos Consultants to the Environment Ltd (ACE) in 1987 as a technician. Although the job did not relate to my education, I still enjoyed it as I learnt a lot about the business of Health & Safety. In 1991, the former business partners decided to split up and the company went up for sale. Having worked and gained the experience in most aspects of the business, I saw this as a challenging opportunity to acquire and develop the business the way I felt was best, to run it both technically and commercially. Hence, with the help of National Westminster Bank (RBS), I financed and acquired the business in 1992.

Since then, the company has grown from 2 to more than 110 people. We have 4 main regional offices in the UK. The business has developed and specialised in doing small to large sized projects in both public and private sector, including Utilities, Energy, Rail, Housing, Local Councils etc. I would attribute all my success to my people who have been with the company through thick and thin and have contributed to make the company what it is today; I could not have done this without them.

In 2005, I came across Mr. Naghi Momeni’s PhD research idea, where he wanted to develop a diagnostic tool that would enable early detection of autism in children. He envisioned it to be the first step towards developing a cure for the disability because the research, if successful, had the potential to help pharmaceutical companies in developing a drug to suppress it. Although I had no background in either laboratory or clinical research, the idea really intrigued me. I put in effort to learn about the disability by reading and attending various conferences & seminars and by meeting the hope-deprived parents of children with the disability. What I learned and experienced convinced me to fund this research as I realised that Dr. Momeni’s idea could significantly contribute to improving the lives of many children.

Hence, 6 years ago we developed a business plan and registered a company by the name of Autism Biodiagnostic both in UK and Sweden. My team and I have faced many challenges, both technical and financial. To keep the research going, I privately financed it with the help of my company ACE Ltd. I also encouraged my family, friends and business associates to contribute to this research. The only thing that has kept me going is that I am contributing towards a cause – a cause aimed at improving the lives and health of children.

In hindsight, I feel if I had not funded the research I could have invested the money towards further development of my business. Nevertheless, when I now see that the research is attracting recognition from autism societies, pharmaceutical companies and universities all around the world; it confirms that the money has been put to good use. Before investing, I was advised that this can be like looking for a needle in an ocean; I just hope our research is that needle and becomes the stepping stone for the scientific breakthrough towards curing Autism.

Sia Shahnooshi

Managing Director

Asbestos Consultants to the Environment Limited

The article is now live on the Nature - Translational Psychiatry website. To view please click here