Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation for Autism
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial is testing whether brain stimulation can improve social and thinking skills in young adults with autism. The treatment involves using electrical or magnetic stimulation on specific parts of the brain. Researchers hope this will help people with autism communicate better and think more flexibly. The new method aims to enhance cognitive, motor, and social communication abilities.
Do I need to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but it does exclude neurotypical adults who are on psychotropic medication. If you are taking such medications, you may not be eligible to participate.
Is transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) safe for humans?
Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is generally considered safe for humans, with studies showing no serious or lasting side effects across many sessions and participants, including children and other vulnerable groups. However, some reports suggest it could potentially cause significant issues, so caution is advised.12345
How does transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) differ from other treatments for autism?
Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is unique because it is a noninvasive method that uses electrical currents to stimulate specific brain areas, potentially improving sociability, behavior, and physical conditions in children with autism. Unlike medications, tDCS directly targets brain function and has shown promising results without reported side effects.25678
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation for Autism?
Research shows that transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can help improve sociability, behavior, health, and physical conditions in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) without side effects. Studies found significant improvements in autism treatment evaluation scores after tDCS sessions, suggesting it may be a beneficial treatment for reducing symptoms of ASD.25789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Catherine Stoodley, D.Phil.
Principal Investigator
American University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for right-handed, English-speaking adults aged 18-35 with or without autism. Participants must be able to consent and attend all sessions, have no metal in their body, no history of seizures or claustrophobia, and a cognitive function score β₯ 85. Those with autism need a confirmed diagnosis.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive excitatory, inhibitory, or sham neuromodulation targeting the cerebellum
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in social and cognitive functions post-neuromodulation
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Transcranial direct current stimulation
Transcranial direct current stimulation is already approved in United States, European Union, Canada for the following indications:
- Depression
- Chronic pain
- Stroke rehabilitation
- Traumatic brain injury rehabilitation
- Major depressive disorder
- Chronic pain
- Stroke rehabilitation
- Traumatic brain injury rehabilitation
- Depression
- Chronic pain
- Stroke rehabilitation
- Traumatic brain injury rehabilitation
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
American University
Lead Sponsor
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Collaborator
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Collaborator