Deep learning platform for predicting autism diagnosis and subtypes

A Deep Learning Algorithm Platform to Predict Autism Diagnosis and Subtypes by Integrating Clinical, Cognitive, Imaging, Gut Microbiome, and Metabolome Data

Observational National Taiwan University Hospital · NCT04873674

This study is testing a new computer program that looks at gut bacteria and other information to see if it can help predict autism and its different types in kids with autism, their siblings, and typically developing children.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment420 (estimated)
Ages4 Years to 25 Years
SexAll
SponsorNational Taiwan University Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Taipei)
Trial IDNCT04873674 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to develop a deep learning algorithm to predict autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnoses and subtypes by analyzing the gut microbiome and other multi-dimensional data. It will involve a large-scale, prospective design that includes both ASD patients and their unaffected siblings, as well as typically developing controls. The study will collect comprehensive data on environmental factors, clinical assessments, neurocognitive measures, and metagenomics profiles to enhance understanding of ASD's pathogenetic mechanisms. The ultimate goal is to create a web application for clinical and academic use that improves early detection and treatment of ASD.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals aged 4 to 25 with a clinical diagnosis of ASD as defined by DSM-5 criteria, along with their unaffected siblings.

Not a fit: Patients with comorbid psychiatric or neurological disorders, or those with a first-degree relative who may have ASD, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved early detection and personalized treatment strategies for autism spectrum disorder.

How similar studies have performed: While studies on the gut-brain axis in psychiatric disorders have shown promise, this specific approach utilizing deep learning for ASD diagnosis is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* ASD participants are (1) they have a clinical diagnosis of ASD defined by the DSM-5 criteria,1 made by board-certificated child psychiatrists and confirmed by the ADI-R/ADOS; (2) their ages range from 4 to 25; (3) both parents are Han Chinese; (4) they and their parents cooperate with all the assessments and stool and blood collection.

Inclusion Criteria for US and TDC are (1) they do not reach the clinical diagnosis of ASD according to DSM-5 diagnostic criteria and the same criteria as described in the (2), (3), (4) and of Inclusion Criteria for ASD participants.

Exclusion Criteria:

* (1) comorbidity with DSM-5 diagnoses of schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, delusional disorder, other psychotic disorders, organic psychosis, schizotypal personality disorder, bipolar disorder, depression, severe anxiety disorders or substance use; (2) comorbidity with neurological or systemic disorders; and (3) having a first degree relative who may have ASD based on family history method assessment (the TDC group).

Where this trial is running

Taipei

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Autism Spectrum Disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.