FX ENTRAIN: Perturbation of Neurodynamics Underlying Sensory Hyperarousal and Statistical Learning in Youth With Fragile X Syndrome

What this Trial Is About

Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder caused by a mutation on the X chromosome, leading to differences in brain activity and sensory processing. Researchers are exploring how altered brain rhythms, particularly in alpha and gamma waves, affect cognitive function and sensory sensitivity in individuals with FXS. This research aims to understand these brain activity changes better and test a new approach to improve cognitive function and reduce sensory overload in youth with developmental disorders. The study involves an intervention called Alpha Auditory Entrainment (AAE), which uses special sounds played through headphones to try to normalize brain activity. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either the AAE stimulus or a sham stimulus (a carrier tone without the entrainment frequencies). The study includes youth aged 5 to 10 years in three groups: those with Fragile X Syndrome, those with Autism Spectrum Disorder, and typically developing controls. The AAE intervention targets brain waves from high theta to high alpha frequencies, aiming specifically for 10 Hz. Participants will be assessed on their brain responses and cognitive performance, including a Word Learning Index during a Statistical Learning Passive Task, measured one week after the intervention. The study uses EEG to monitor brain activity and evaluates sensory and cognitive functions. The trial is randomized and quadruple-masked to ensure unbiased results. Overall involvement includes baseline assessments, the auditory entrainment or sham sessions, and follow-up testing to measure changes in brain activity and learning ability over the study period.

Alpha Auditory Entrainment for Cognitive Enhancement and Sensory Hypersensitivity in Youth With Developmental Disorders