Improving communication in minimally verbal children with autism

ConProject-002

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · BOSTON UNIVERSITY (CHARLES RIVER CAMPUS) · NIH-10689733

This study is looking for ways to help young children with autism who have trouble speaking by figuring out how their brains and bodies work together for communication, so we can create better support and tools to help them learn to talk and connect with others.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorBOSTON UNIVERSITY (CHARLES RIVER CAMPUS) (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10689733 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how to enhance speech and social communication in young children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) who are minimally verbal. It aims to identify the underlying motor and neural mechanisms contributing to their communication challenges and to develop targeted behavioral interventions that can facilitate language acquisition. The project employs a multidisciplinary approach, utilizing advanced technologies and methods from various fields such as communication disorders, neuroscience, and genetics. By understanding which children are likely to benefit from specific interventions, the research seeks to improve outcomes for this population.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and are minimally verbal.

Not a fit: Patients who are not diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or who are verbally proficient may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to significant improvements in communication skills for minimally verbal children with autism.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using targeted behavioral interventions to improve communication in children with autism, indicating that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

BOSTON, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.