Using brain stimulation to help children with autism
Right Lateralized Posterior Cerebellar tDCS in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder
NA · University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center · NCT05691283
This study is testing whether a type of brain stimulation can help children with autism improve their thinking skills and other challenges they face.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Ages | 5 Years to 21 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Dalls, Texas) |
| Trial ID | NCT05691283 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This research investigates the effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on challenges faced by children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The study will involve 30-40 children and young adults, with a randomized, double-blind, within-subject crossover design. Participants will undergo both sham and active tDCS conditions, with each session lasting three weeks and separated by a three-month interval. The study aims to assess cognitive functioning and other outcomes through various pre- and post-testing measures, including MRI and MEG imaging.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are children and young adults aged 5 to 21 diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Not a fit: Patients with pregnancy, brain implants, or significant sensory impairments may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could improve cognitive and behavioral challenges in children with autism.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of tDCS in autism is still emerging, preliminary studies have shown promise in similar approaches.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Ages 5 to 21, male and female, with known autism spectrum disorder as diagnosed by a clinician Exclusion Criteria: * Pregnancy * Brain implants * Pacemakers * Any biomedical or metal implants in any part of body * Hearing or visual impairment * History of brain injury * Known brain or skull abnormality other than those that may be associated with ASD
Where this trial is running
Dalls, Texas
- UT Southwestern Medical Center — Dalls, Texas, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Peter Tsai, MD, PhD — University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Haley Walker
- Email: Autism@utsouthwestern.edu
- Phone: 214-797-6454
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- 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, Children, Young adults, Transcranial direct current stimulation, tDCS