Using machine learning to predict treatment outcomes of brain stimulation in adolescents with autism

A Machine Learning Approach for Predicting tDCS Treatment Outcomes of Adolescents With Autism Spectrum Disorders

Not applicable Interventional The Hong Kong Polytechnic University · NCT05035511

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

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment90 (estimated)
Ages12 Years to 22 Years
SexAll
SponsorThe Hong Kong Polytechnic University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Hung Hom, Kowloon)
Trial IDNCT05035511 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who should consider this trial

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.

Not a fit: Patients with severe motor dysfunctions, other neurological or psychiatric disorders, or those on psychiatric medication may not benefit from this study.

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 performed: 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.

Eligibility criteria

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 this trial is running

Hung Hom, Kowloon

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Transcranial Direct Current StimulationAutistic Disorders SpectrumElectroencephalographyMachine Learning
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.