Using brain stimulation to help children with autism
Official title: Biologic Effects and Efficacy of Cerebellar tDCS in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Run by University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center · NCT04446442 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if a type of brain stimulation can help children and young adults with autism feel better by reducing symptoms like repetitive behaviors and hyperactivity.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 4 Years to 17 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Dallas, Texas and 1 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | June 4, 2019 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | June 4, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT04446442 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are children aged 4-17 who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder using the ADOS-2 assessment.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with brain implants, epilepsy, or significant sensory impairments 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 research investigates the safety and effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) applied to the cerebellum in children and young adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The study will involve 60 participants aged 4-17, who will undergo a randomized, double-blind, controlled design to assess changes in symptoms such as repetitive behaviors and hyperactivity. Participants will be screened for eligibility and will complete various tasks to establish baseline behavioral measurements before receiving the intervention. The study aims to gather data on the potential therapeutic effects of tDCS on ASD symptoms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a novel non-invasive treatment option for managing symptoms of autism spectrum disorder in children.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of tDCS is a relatively novel approach in this context, preliminary studies have shown promise in similar applications for neurological conditions.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 4-17 years old * Diagnosed with ASD and ADOS-2 * IQ Score no less than 70 (1.5 Standard Deviations below the mean) * Language Level (Speech consists of, at minimum, flexible, spontaneous, simple, sentences) Exclusion Criteria: * Brain implants, metal implants, pacemakers, or biomedical devices * Diagnosis of epilepsy * Hearing or visual impairments * History of brain injury * Known brain abnormalities not associated with ASD
Where it's running
-
Children's Medical Center
Dallas, Texas, United States Recruiting -
University of Texas Southwestern
Dallas, Texas, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Peter Tsai, MD, PhD — University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Peter Tsai, MD, PhD
- Email: peter.tsai@utsouthwestern.edu
- Phone: 214-648-3577
Similar studies
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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.