tDCS + Social Learning for Autism
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores the effects of a brain stimulation technique called transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) paired with social learning tasks for adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or high ASD traits. Participants will undergo both active tDCS and placebo (sham) sessions to determine if the real treatment improves social learning compared to the fake one. Suitable candidates have been diagnosed with autism and possess good vision and hearing. Testing will occur before and after the treatment sessions to assess changes. As an unphased trial, this study provides participants the chance to contribute to groundbreaking research that could enhance the understanding and treatment of ASD.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that this protocol is safe for high functioning adults with ASD?
Research has shown that transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has been tested for safety in adults. Studies have found that tDCS is usually well-tolerated, with no major side effects reported, particularly concerning movement abilities. This indicates that the treatment is safe for adults, including those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Although researchers continue to study tDCS, the absence of serious side effects in past research is encouraging. For those considering joining a trial, this means the treatment has been tested before and has demonstrated a good safety record so far.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the combination of anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and social learning for autism because it takes a fresh approach to treatment. Unlike typical therapies that focus on behavioral interventions or medications like antipsychotics and stimulants, this method uses a non-invasive brain stimulation technique to potentially enhance social learning. Anodal tDCS is thought to modulate brain activity, which could lead to more rapid improvements in social interactions and behaviors. This innovative method offers hope for a faster, more effective way to address core symptoms of autism.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for autism?
Research has shown that anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can improve symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In this trial, participants will receive either anodal tDCS combined with social learning tasks or placebo anodal tDCS combined with social learning tasks. Studies have found that tDCS can lower scores on autism rating scales, indicating better overall ASD symptoms. One study showed that tDCS helped with social challenges, particularly in individuals who process sensory information well. Another study demonstrated that tDCS improved specific behaviors, such as recognizing facial emotions. Overall, multiple tDCS sessions have led to significant improvements in ASD symptoms and are generally well-tolerated by participants.26789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Bill Shuttleworth, Ph.D.
Principal Investigator
University of New Mexico
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults aged 18-35 with Autism Spectrum Disorder who are proficient in English, have good vision and hearing (with or without correction), score at least 85 on the Shipley-2 intelligence test, and are right-handed. They must be diagnosed with autism or ASD via ADOS-2 or score at least 17 on the Autism Quotient.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment - Active tDCS
Participants undergo 5 sessions of 30 minutes anodal tDCS combined with social learning tasks on consecutive weekdays
Break
A four-week break between the active and sham tDCS blocks
Treatment - Sham tDCS
Participants undergo 5 sessions of 30 minutes placebo anodal tDCS combined with social learning tasks on consecutive weekdays
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Anodal tDCS + Social Learning
- Placebo Anodal tDCS + Social Learning
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of New Mexico
Lead Sponsor
National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS)
Collaborator