Understanding how depression affects young people with autism
Official title: Neural Mechanisms of Depressive Symptoms in Youth with Autism SpectrumDisorder
Funded at Emma Pendleton Bradley Hospital · NIH-10893042 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the brains of teenagers with autism and depression work differently, so we can find better ways to help them feel better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emma Pendleton Bradley Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Riverside, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 18, 2022 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $196,760 |
| NIH project number | 5K23MH128466-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10893042 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12 to 16 who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and exhibit depressive symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients outside the age range of 12 to 16 or those without a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the neural mechanisms that contribute to depressive symptoms in adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). By using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to identify specific brain connectivity patterns and white matter changes associated with depression in this population. The research involves scanning both children with ASD and age-matched controls to compare their brain structures and functions. Ultimately, the goal is to develop targeted treatments that can improve mental health outcomes for these young individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective, personalized treatments for depression in youth with autism.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the neural correlates of depression in various populations, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Emma Pendleton Bradley Hospital
Riverside, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Radoeva, Petya D — Emma Pendleton Bradley Hospital
- Study coordinator: Radoeva, Petya D
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Neural roots of how autistic adults understand word meaning
A study to understand how adults with autism process word meanings in the brain, aiming to improve language support.
-
Cancer Pain Management for Asian American Breast Cancer Survivors with Depressive Symptoms
A technology-based program helps Asian American breast cancer survivors with depressive symptoms manage chronic pain more effectively from home using a web app and mobile tools.
-
Sleep and daily rhythms and brain development in autism
Aiming to understand how sleep problems and daily activity patterns affect brain growth, thinking skills, daily functioning, and autism symptoms in children.
-
Early sensory development and language in infants/toddlers at risk for autism
A family-friendly study exploring how early sensory responses relate to language development in young children who have siblings with autism.
-
Autism Caregiver Coaching in Africa for Young Children
A Duke University-led project in South Africa aims to help young children with autism by training caregivers to deliver proven coaching strategies through non-specialist providers.
-
Autism and Self-regulation: Remote Testing of Heart-Related Signals in Kids
A study to see if remote testing can safely measure how children with autism and disruptive behavior manage emotions and self-control by tracking heart signals and other markers.
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.