Exploring brain connectivity in autism and the effects of neurostimulation
Official title: Discerning the Abnormal Functional Connectivity Involving the Social Reciprocity Network in Autism Spectrum Disorder and the Impact of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Mitigating the Abnormalities
Run by Christiana Care Health Services · NCT06807684 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if a brain stimulation treatment can help improve social skills in people with autism by looking at how their brain connections work.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 13 Years to 18 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 12 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Christiana Care Health Services Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Newark, Delaware) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | August 15, 2024 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2025 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2025 |
| Registry record updated | February 21, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06807684 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are individuals who meet the DSM-V criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with significant anxiety or contact avoidance that prevents cooperation with the procedure may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This trial investigates the abnormalities in neuronal connectivity within the social reciprocity network in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The researchers hypothesize that these connectivity issues contribute to the core deficits associated with ASD. By utilizing quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG) to analyze coherence and spectral power, the study aims to understand the neuronal dynamics affecting social cognition. Additionally, the trial will assess the impact of transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) on these abnormalities to potentially improve social functioning in participants.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved social cognition and functioning in individuals with autism.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using neurostimulation in autism is being explored, this specific focus on the social reciprocity network is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion criteria 1\. Fulfilling the DSM-V criteria for ASD and confirmed by CARS2, HF Exclusion criteria 1. Patients with ASD exhibiting significant anxiety or contact avoidance, precluding them from cooperating with the procedure 2. Patients with a known diagnosis of seizures 3. Presence of any metallic implants or devices in the head or neck area 4. Pregnant women
Where it's running
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Christiana Care
Newark, Delaware, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Mitra Assadi, MD
- Email: mitra.assadi@christianacare.org
- Phone: 3026233017
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.