What is tDCS studying for autism spectrum disorder?

tDCS combined with cognitive training is being studied to see if it can reduce core symptoms of autism, such as anxiety, impulsivity, and social communication challenges. Researchers aim to understand which individuals respond best to this treatment. The Hong Kong Polytechnic University leads this research to improve intervention approaches for adolescents with autism.

Who may be eligible for this autism spectrum disorder clinical trial?

Participants aged 12 to 22 with a confirmed diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder and an IQ above 60 may be eligible. They must be able to understand testing and stimulation instructions. People with severe motor issues, neurological or psychiatric disorders, head trauma, or on psychiatric medication are excluded. Please review eligibility criteria for more details.

Is there any cost to participate in this autism spectrum disorder clinical trial?

Study-related care, including the study device and all trial visits, is provided at no cost. Personal travel expenses may vary and are not guaranteed to be covered. Participants should plan accordingly for any travel costs.

Actively Recruiting

Phase Not Applicable

Age: 12Years - 22Years

All Genders

ID05035511

Predicting Treatment Results of Brain Stimulation and Cognitive Training in Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder Using Machine Learning

Led by The Hong Kong Polytechnic University · Updated on 2026-06-24

Participants Needed

Research Sites

N/A

Total Duration

AI-Summary

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the use of transcranial direct current stimulation tDCS combined with cognitive training to address symptoms in adolescents with autism spectrum disorder ASD. ASD is characterized by challenges in communication, social skills, repetitive behaviors, and emotional distress triggered by environmental changes. This study aims to determine if baseline resting-state EEG and clinical data can predict which individuals respond to tDCS treatment, helping to improve intervention strategies. Participants will receive active tDCS over 10 sessions during two weeks, with one session per day on consecutive working days. Each session includes 20 minutes of tDCS combined with an online cognitive training program consisting of five exercises targeting information processing speed and executive function. After treatment, participants will be classified as responders or non-responders based on changes in social responsiveness scores. During the study, assessments will measure changes in social communication and repetitive behaviors using the Social Responsiveness Scale, cognitive function through various CANTAB tests, and neurophysiological measures at the start and immediately after the intervention. Researchers will monitor behavioral changes and executive function outcomes to evaluate the impact of the combined treatment over the study period ending in 2026.

CONDITIONS

Brief Title

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

Who Can Participate

Age: 12Years - 22Years

All Genders

Eligibility Criteria

You may qualify if you...

Individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder by a clinical psychologist using DSM-V criteria and structured interview with parents or caregivers
Individuals with an intelligence quotient above 60
Individuals able to understand testing and stimulation instructions

You will not qualify if you...

Individuals with severe motor dysfunctions that hinder participation
Individuals with a history of other neurological or psychiatric disorders
Individuals with head trauma
Individuals currently on psychiatric medication

Research Team

Yvonne Han, PhD

Melody Chan, PhD

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