Characterization of the Nociception Phenotype in Individuals With Intellectual Disability

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying how people with intellectual disability (ID) respond to unpleasant sensations compared to those without ID. The goal is to understand brain activity and pain perception in individuals aged 8 to 30 years with ID versus healthy volunteers. This research addresses the gap in knowledge about pain experiences in people with ID, who often have additional physical disabilities affecting their nerves, bones, muscles, and gastrointestinal systems. The study involves a special device called the TSA2 Thermosensory Stimulator to provide heat, cold, brushing, and mild electrical stimuli to various body parts. Brain responses will be measured using electroencephalography (EEG) and functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). Participants will wear a sensor cap and have sensors placed on their chest, fingers, and around their body to monitor heart rate, breathing, sweat, and brain activity during the stimuli. There are two groups: individuals with intellectual disability and healthy controls. Participants will attend one visit lasting up to four hours, though those with ID may have up to five shorter visits. They will undergo tests to assess intellectual disability level, physical exams, and answer questions about pain, sensory responses, and social behavior. Caregivers may assist if needed. The study will measure brain activation, physiological responses like heart rate and skin conductance, and behavioral reactions to stimuli. The primary outcome is to provide a quantitative measure of pain perception by the study's end.

Characterization of Nociception Phenotype in Individuals With Intellectual Disability