Understanding how the brain recognizes social interactions in people with autism
Official title: The neural computations underlying human social interaction recognition
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11010873 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the brains of people with autism understand social interactions, using special imaging tools to see which parts of the brain help recognize social cues, so we can better understand the challenges they face in social situations.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | March 9, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $523,242 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH132826-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11010873 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have autism or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the brain perceives and understands social interactions, particularly in individuals with autism. By using advanced imaging techniques like fMRI and EEG, the study aims to identify specific brain regions involved in recognizing social cues and interactions. The researchers will explore how visual information and cognitive processes work together to help individuals interpret social situations. This could lead to a better understanding of the challenges faced by those with autism in social contexts.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could improve social interaction skills and therapeutic approaches for individuals with autism.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain mechanisms related to social cognition, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Isik, Leyla — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Isik, Leyla
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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.