Understanding how oxytocin affects social play in children with autism
Oxytocin neural circuitry involvement in juvenile social play
['FUNDING_R01'] · MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10996163
This study looks at how a hormone called oxytocin affects social play in kids with autism by testing it in young rats, hoping to find ways to help improve their social skills and interactions.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (EAST LANSING, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10996163 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of oxytocin, a hormone linked to social behavior, in the social play of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). By studying juvenile rats, the researchers aim to uncover how oxytocin influences brain regions associated with reward and social interaction, and whether these effects differ between males and females. The findings could lead to targeted therapies that enhance social play and improve social skills in children with ASD. The study focuses on understanding the neural mechanisms behind social play deficits in ASD, which is crucial for developing effective interventions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have autism spectrum disorder or are outside the age range of 0-11 years may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve social skills and interactions in children with autism.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific role of oxytocin in social play among children with autism is relatively novel, previous research has shown promising results in using oxytocin to improve social functioning in other contexts.
Where this research is happening
EAST LANSING, UNITED STATES
- MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY — EAST LANSING, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: VEENEMA, ALEXANDRA H. — MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: VEENEMA, ALEXANDRA H.
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.
Conditions: autism spectral disorder, autism spectrum disorder