Using brain stimulation to improve social understanding in autism
Official title: Modulating Temporoparietal Junction Mentalizing-Related Activity in Autism Spectrum Disorder Using Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
Run by Yale University · NCT06214065 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if a type of brain stimulation can help young adults with autism understand social situations better.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 35 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 80 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Yale University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hartford, Connecticut) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | April 3, 2024 |
| Main results expected | October 2027 |
| Study ends | October 2027 |
| Registry record updated | March 27, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06214065 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are young adults with autism spectrum disorder who meet specific inclusion criteria.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with a history of neurological disorders, significant medical conditions, or those currently using certain medications 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 aims to explore how transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can modulate brain activity related to mentalizing in young adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Participants will undergo a series of assessments, including MRI scans and TMS sessions, to evaluate changes in neural activity during social interactions. The study will compare the effects of different TMS protocols on the right temporoparietal junction and its impact on mentalizing capabilities. By understanding these mechanisms, researchers hope to lay the groundwork for future interventions that could enhance social communication skills in individuals with ASD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic approaches that improve social skills and interactions for individuals with autism.
How similar studies have gone: While some studies have explored TMS in relation to autism, this specific approach targeting the right temporoparietal junction is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Estimated full-scale IQ\>80 * Right handed * Fluent in English * Individual can cooperate with all study's procedures * No history of neurological disorder (e.g. epilepsy) or neurosurgery * No major medical condition (e.g. cancer, heart failure) * No history of significant head injury * No primary relatives with history of any neurological disorder with a potentially hereditary basis, including epilepsy or MS * No current use of medications with psychotropic (e.g., benzodiazepines) or anti- or pro-convulsants * No current substance use (determined by urine screen and breathalyzer in all visits) * Negative urine pregnancy (women) test at time of MRI scans * No MR contra-indications (e.g. in-body metal implant, severe claustrophobia) * No previous participation in our lab in a study including the Domino fMRI task * For ASD: Stable medication treatment 4 weeks prior to study enrollment * For Control Group: No current or history of psychiatric disorders, other than simple phobia, and/or primary relatives with ASD Exclusion Criteria: \-
Where it's running
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Olin Neuropsychiatry Research Center (ONRC)
Hartford, Connecticut, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Vaughn Steele, MD — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Michal Assaf, MD
- Email: michal.assaf@hhchealth.org
- Phone: 860-545-7792
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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.