Oxytocin's effects on social attention and behavior in adults with autism
Oxytocin Modulation of Neural Circuit Function and Behavior
This project explores whether oxytocin changes social attention and behavior for 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-11141760 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You would take part in tests that look at how oxytocin changes attention to social cues using brain scans, behavioral tasks, and biological samples. The work combines experiments in animals and people so researchers can link brain circuit changes to behavior. Teams will compare oxytocin's effects across different brain areas and behavioral states to learn when it helps or worsens social responses. The goal is to use those findings to guide more precise treatments for social difficulties.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults (typically 21 years and older) with an autism spectrum disorder who have challenges with social attention or interaction would be the most likely candidates.
Not a fit: Children, people without social attention or interaction difficulties, or individuals with medical reasons that make oxytocin unsafe may not benefit from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to better-targeted oxytocin-based approaches to improve social attention and interaction in adults with autism.
How similar studies have performed: Previous human trials of oxytocin for social symptoms have shown mixed and inconsistent results, so this approach remains promising but not yet proven.
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.