Understanding sensory responses in autism and related disorders

Paradoxical Sensory Responses: A Clue Towards Understanding Biotypes in Autism Spectrum Disorder and Other Neurodevelopmental Disorders

NIH-funded research Boston Children's Hospital · NIH-11057571

This study is looking at how young children, especially those with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental differences, respond to sensory experiences by using a safe and gentle brain scan, hoping to find ways to better understand and help them.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBoston Children's Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11057571 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how sensory processing in young children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other neurodevelopmental conditions can be measured using non-invasive electroencephalography (EEG). By analyzing brain activity in response to sensory stimuli, the study aims to identify distinct biological groups or 'biotypes' within these conditions. The research involves children aged 3-4 years, including those with ASD, typically developing children, and those with sensory processing concerns. The goal is to develop biomarkers that can improve diagnosis and treatment outcomes for these children.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation are children aged 3-4 years who are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, typically developing children, or those with sensory processing concerns.

Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 3-4 years or those without sensory processing concerns may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnoses and tailored interventions for children with autism and related disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using EEG to understand sensory processing in neurodevelopmental disorders, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.