Using brain stimulation to help children with autism

Is this trial a fit for you?

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 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.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

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 it's running

• 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

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.