Investigating the causes of autism through environmental and genetic factors

The CHARGE Study Phase II: A Multifactorial Approach to Autism Etiology

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS · NIH-11017694

This study is looking at how things like air pollution and a mother's health, along with genetics, might work together to increase the chances of a child having autism, and it's for families who want to understand more about what causes autism.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DAVIS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11017694 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the complex causes of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by examining how environmental factors, such as air pollution and maternal health conditions, interact with genetic predispositions. The study builds on previous findings from the CHARGE Study and aims to analyze the effects of multiple exposures rather than single factors. By enrolling participants, the research seeks to identify specific combinations of environmental and genetic influences that may increase the risk of ASD in children. This multifactorial approach could lead to a deeper understanding of autism's etiology and potential prevention strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children under 11 years old who may be at risk for autism spectrum disorder due to environmental or genetic factors.

Not a fit: Patients who are older than 11 years or do not have any risk factors associated with autism spectrum disorder may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention strategies for autism spectrum disorder by identifying modifiable risk factors.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in identifying environmental and genetic interactions related to autism, making this approach both relevant and promising.

Where this research is happening

DAVIS, 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 →

Conditions: autism spectral disorder, autism spectrum disorder, autism spectrum disorder features, autism spectrum disorder indicator, autism spectrum disorder symptoms

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.