Using machine learning to predict treatment outcomes of brain stimulation in adolescents with autism
Official title: A Machine Learning Approach for Predicting tDCS Treatment Outcomes of Adolescents With Autism Spectrum Disorders
Run by The Hong Kong Polytechnic University · NCT05035511 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if a brain stimulation treatment can help teenagers with autism and using technology to predict how well it might work for them.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 12 Years to 22 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 90 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hung Hom, Kowloon) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 5, 2022 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2026 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | June 24, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT05035511 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are adolescents diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder who have an intelligence quotient above 60 and can follow instructions.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with severe motor dysfunctions, other neurological or psychiatric disorders, or those on psychiatric medication 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 effectiveness of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) in adolescents diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). By employing machine learning techniques, the research aims to predict how well these individuals will respond to tDCS treatment based on their unique brain connectivity profiles. Participants will be assessed for their eligibility through structured interviews and psychological evaluations to ensure they meet the criteria for ASD. The study seeks to enhance understanding of cognitive and behavioral challenges faced by adolescents with ASD and improve treatment strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to more personalized and effective treatment options for adolescents with autism spectrum disorder.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of machine learning in predicting treatment outcomes is a growing field, this specific application in tDCS for adolescents with autism is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Individuals who are confirmed by a clinical psychologist based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-5th Ed (DSM-V) criteria of Autism spectrum disorder and structured interview with their parents or primary caregivers on their developmental history using the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R). * Individuals with intelligence quotient above 60. * Individuals who demonstrate the ability to comprehend testing and stimulation instructions. Exclusion Criteria: * Individuals with severe motor dysfunctions that would hinder their participation, and those with history of other neurological and psychiatric disorders and head trauma, or on psychiatric medication will be excluded from the study
Where it's running
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The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Yvonne Han, PhD — The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
- Study coordinator: Yvonne Han, PhD
- Email: yvonne.han@polyu.edu.hk
- Phone: 2766 7578
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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Effects of brain stimulation on adolescents with autism
This study is testing if a type of brain stimulation can help reduce anxiety, aggression, impulsivity, and inattention in teenagers with autism.
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tDCS plus computerized cognitive training for children with autism
This project will test whether daily tDCS sessions combined with computer-based cognitive training can improve cognitive processing in 8–12-year-old children with autism compared with sham stimulation.
-
Using resting‑state brain connectivity to predict who benefits from tDCS in adolescents with autism
This project will test whether resting‑state brain connectivity can predict which adolescents (ages 12–22) with autism benefit from anodal or cathodal tDCS to the left DLPFC versus sham.
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.