Exploring brain connectivity in autism and the effects of neurostimulation

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

Not applicable Interventional Christiana Care Health Services · NCT06807684

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

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment12 (estimated)
Ages13 Years to 18 Years
SexAll
SponsorChristiana Care Health Services Academic / other
Locations1 site (Newark, Delaware)
Trial IDNCT06807684 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals who meet the DSM-V criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Not a fit: Patients with significant anxiety or contact avoidance that prevents cooperation with the procedure may not benefit from this study.

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 performed: While the approach of using neurostimulation in autism is being explored, this specific focus on the social reciprocity network is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

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 this trial is running

Newark, Delaware

Study contacts

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 DisorderAutism spectrumtranscranial magnetic stimulationneuronal connectivity
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.