Investigating how social and cognitive factors affect aging in autistic individuals

Social, Cognitive, and Behavioral Influences on Early Life Aging in Autism

['FUNDING_CAREER'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES · NIH-10892186

This study is looking at how different social and personal factors affect aging in people with autism, and it aims to find clues in their DNA that could help us understand their health as they get older, so we can find ways to support them better throughout their lives.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_CAREER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10892186 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how social, cognitive, and behavioral influences impact the aging process in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It aims to identify biological markers of aging through advanced techniques that analyze DNA methylation patterns, which may indicate risks for health declines as autistic individuals age. By studying these markers, the research seeks to uncover the relationship between early life experiences and later life health outcomes, potentially allowing for early interventions. The study will also explore how variations in these biological markers correlate with brain aging indicators.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include autistic individuals, particularly those in midlife, who may be at risk for cognitive and health declines.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have autism spectrum disorder or those who are not in the midlife age range may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to early identification of autistic individuals at risk for adverse health outcomes, enabling timely interventions to improve their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using biological markers to predict health outcomes in aging populations, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights for autistic individuals as well.

Where this research is happening

LOS ANGELES, 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.