Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Interventional Ages 12 to 22

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 typeInterventional
Ages12 Years to 22 Years
SexAll
Enrollment90 (estimated)
SponsorThe Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Hung Hom, Kowloon)
StatusRecruiting
StartedJanuary 5, 2022
Main results expectedDecember 31, 2026
Study endsDecember 31, 2026
Registry record updatedJune 24, 2026
Trial IDNCT05035511 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

  • 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.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.