Understanding brain connectivity in autism and ADHD
Official title: Neural Substrates of Autism and ADHD: Reward Circuitry Connectivity and Individual Differences
Funded at University of Southern California · NIH-11054459 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the brain's reward system works in people with autism and ADHD compared to those without these conditions, hoping to find new insights that could improve diagnosis and treatment for everyone involved.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 3, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $183,854 |
| NIH project number | 1K01MH135160-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11054459 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals aged 5 to 65 who have been diagnosed with ASD, ADHD, or both, as well as neurotypical controls.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to ASD or ADHD, or those outside the specified age range, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the brain's reward system is connected in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). By using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to uncover the differences and similarities in brain connectivity patterns between those with these conditions and neurotypical individuals. The research will analyze large datasets to explore both categorical diagnoses and continuous symptoms, providing a comprehensive view of how these disorders manifest in the brain. This could lead to better understanding and potential new approaches for diagnosis and treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic methods and targeted interventions for individuals with autism and ADHD.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain connectivity in similar populations, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lawrence, Katherine E — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Lawrence, Katherine E
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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.