Exploring brain function in autism and food addiction
Official title: Stimuli Sociaux et Non-sociaux du système de récompense : Une étude en IRM Chez Des Sujets Avec Trouble du Spectre de l'Autisme et Des Sujets Avec un Trouble Addictif à l'Alimentation. - RESYSTAA
Run by University Hospital, Tours · NCT05391113 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing how brain activity works in adults with autism and food addiction to see if there are any similarities in how their reward systems function compared to healthy individuals.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 78 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University Hospital, Tours Academic / other |
| Locations | 3 sites (Tours and 2 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | July 27, 2023 |
| Main results expected | July 2028 |
| Study ends | July 2028 |
| Registry record updated | November 9, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT05391113 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include adults diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder or Food Addictive Disorder, as well as healthy volunteers without neurological or psychiatric histories.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with significant neuromotor disorders, visual disturbances incompatible with MRI, or current substance use disorders 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 study investigates the neural networks associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Food Addictive Disorder (FAD) using MRI technology. Participants include adults diagnosed with ASD, those with food addiction, and healthy volunteers for comparison. The research aims to identify common pathophysiological features related to the dysfunction of the reward system in these conditions. By analyzing brain activity through MRI and EEG, the study seeks to enhance understanding of the underlying mechanisms of these disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for individuals with autism and food addiction.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promise in exploring the reward system in related disorders, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Arm A ˗ Concerning ASD patients: Adult carrying the diagnosis of ASD (DSM-5, ADOS, ADI-R criteria) Arm B ˗ Concerning FAD patients: Adult diagnosed with FA presenting with food addiction (DSM-5, YFAS 2.0, BES \>= 18 criteria). Arm C ˗ Concerning healthy volunteers : Adult with no neurological and psychiatric history , absence of progressive somatic pathologies or with vital risk. For all participants: * Age greater than or equal to 18 years old * Without intellectual delay (IQ \> 70). * Able to understand and apply the instruction when an active task is proposed, according to the estimate of the investigator. * Free, express, informed and written consent of the participant. * Participant affiliated to a social security scheme Exclusion Criteria: * Neuromotor disorders. * Visual disturbances not corrected or incompatible with MRI. * Known epilepsy. * Current substance use disorder with emotional distress/significant impact on functional outcome * Rare genetic syndrome. * Contraindications to MRI (other than body circumference) * For women of childbearing age: negative urine or blood pregnancy test * Person subject to a measure of judicial protection (safeguard of justice, curatorship, guardianship or family authorization)
Where it's running
-
Center-Val de Loire Region Autism Resource Center
Tours, France Recruiting -
University Addictology Service, Liaison Team and Addictology Care
Tours, France Recruiting -
University Hospital, Medical Imaging Service
Tours, France Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Frédéric BRIEND, PhD — University Hospital,Tours -INSERM U1253 iBrain
- Study coordinator: Frédéric BRIEND, PhD
- Email: frederic.briend@univ-tours.fr
- Phone: +33247478519
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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Structured Sensory-Based Occupational Therapy for Children with Autism
This study tests a 12-week, 40-minute sensory-based occupational therapy program twice a week to see if it improves daily skills, sensory processing, movement, and eating in children aged 3-9 with autism.
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Exergaming and Aerobic Exercise for Kids with Autism
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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.