How oxytocin affects social attention and behavior in adults with autism
Oxytocin Modulation of Neural Circuit Function and Behavior
Seeing if oxytocin can help social attention and interactions in adults with autism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11379691 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project brings together labs that study oxytocin from molecules to brain circuits and behavior, including work with adults who have autism and complementary animal and cellular experiments. Researchers will measure how oxytocin changes brain activity and behavior, compare different delivery methods, and look at how state or experience alters its effects. The team will use brain recordings, imaging, and behavioral tests to explain why past human results have been inconsistent. Findings aim to show who might benefit and how oxytocin-based approaches could be used more precisely and safely.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder who experience social attention or interaction difficulties and who can travel to study visits are the most likely candidates for participation.
Not a fit: Children, people without social-communication challenges, or those not eligible for adult-focused protocols are unlikely to benefit directly from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could point to better-targeted oxytocin-based approaches to improve social attention and interactions for some autistic adults.
How similar studies have performed: Previous human trials of oxytocin have shown mixed results, so this project builds on inconsistent findings to clarify when and how oxytocin might help.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- New York University School of Medicine — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tsien, Richard W — New York University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Tsien, Richard W
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.