Understanding gastrointestinal issues in autistic individuals and predicting treatment responses
Official title: Characterizing gastrointestinal disorder trajectories for autistic sub-groups: Machine learning prediction of risk profiles and response to treatment
Funded at University of Southern California · NIH-11142549 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into the tummy troubles that many autistic people and their families experience, trying to figure out how these issues change over time, so we can find better ways to help everyone feel better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $632,427 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HD115661-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11142549 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include autistic individuals of all ages, particularly those experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms, as well as their caregivers.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without gastrointestinal issues or those not on the autism spectrum may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the gastrointestinal (GI) problems commonly reported by autistic individuals and their families, aiming to understand how these symptoms develop over time. By combining qualitative interviews with autistic adults and caregivers, along with quantitative analysis of electronic health records, the study seeks to identify risk profiles and treatment responses among different sub-groups of autistic individuals. The use of machine learning will help create predictive models that can inform better treatment strategies tailored to individual needs.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of gastrointestinal issues in autistic individuals, enhancing their overall health and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using machine learning and qualitative methods to understand health trajectories in various populations, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Angell, Amber M. — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Angell, Amber M.
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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.