Understanding How Touch Sensitivity Affects Brain Development in Autism
The Effects of Somatosensory Experience on Brain Development and Function in Autism Spectrum Disorders
['FUNDING_R01'] · MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL · NIH-11113936
This work explores how differences in how people with autism feel touch might shape their brain development and behavior.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11113936 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Many individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) experience altered sensitivity to light touch. This project aims to understand how problems with the nerves that sense touch, located outside the brain and spinal cord, might contribute to these differences. We want to discover how these peripheral touch-sensing nerves influence brain development and social behaviors in autism. By looking at both the body's sensory system and the brain, we hope to uncover new ways to understand and support individuals with ASD.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant to adults, 21 years and older, who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
Not a fit: Patients not diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or those under 21 years of age would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a better understanding of the causes of touch sensitivity and social challenges in autism, potentially opening doors for new therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Previous findings from this research team have shown that peripheral sensory neuron dysfunction in mouse models of ASD leads to touch hypersensitivity and affects brain function and social interactions.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: OREFICE, LAUREN LYNN — MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL
- Study coordinator: OREFICE, LAUREN LYNN
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: Autistic Disorder, Behavior-Related Disorder