Autism

This study tests a parent-led, home-based play program designed to improve social cognitive skills—like recognizing emotions and understanding others' perspectives—in young children with autism. Parents are trained to deliver daily 30-minute cooperative games for six months, with…

This 24-month study tests whether adding umbilical cord stem cells (AdiaVita) to glutathione therapy helps improve autism symptoms in children ages 3-12. About 100 kids will be randomly assigned to get either glutathione alone or glutathione plus stem cell infusions. Parents and …

This study tests a telehealth program called tele-ImPACT for infants aged 6-24 months who have an older sibling with autism, putting them at higher risk for social communication delays or language disorders. The program teaches parents strategies to support their child's communic…

This study tests whether a combination of umbilical cord stem cells and glutathione can safely improve autism symptoms in 100 people aged 3 and older. Participants receive either the stem cell product plus glutathione, or a placebo plus glutathione, with the option to switch grou…

This study tests whether propranolol, a common blood pressure medication, can reduce aggression, self-injury, and severe disruptive behaviors in autistic adolescents and adults. Sixty participants will receive either propranolol or a placebo for 12 weeks, with the option to take …

This study aims to find the best way to sequence two parent-led therapies for young children with autism: one focused on social communication and another on disruptive behavior. Researchers will enroll 184 children aged 18-48 months and their caregivers to compare different thera…

This study looks at how well a special intensive therapy called ACQUIRE Therapy works for children with motor problems caused by conditions like cerebral palsy, autism, or brain injury. The therapy involves many hours of play-based exercises each day, often with a cast or splint …

This study tests whether the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM), a play-based behavioral therapy, helps young autistic children improve language and daily living skills when used in community programs. Researchers will enroll 600 participants, including 300 children aged 1-5, across…

This study compares two common stimulant classes (amphetamine and methylphenidate) and alpha-2 agonists to treat ADHD in 500 children aged 4-17 with autism. The goal is to find which medication works best and reduce the trial-and-error process. Parents and doctors will track symp…

This study is testing whether a portable eye-tracking device can accurately screen 9-month-old infants for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Over 2,000 babies will watch short videos while cameras track their eye movements. Researchers will then compare these results with standard …

This study is testing whether a simple, non-invasive eye-tracking test can help diagnose autism in young children (ages 24-72 months) born to mothers with HIV in Kenya. Researchers will compare eye-tracking results with standard clinical autism evaluations in 850 children. If the…

This study is testing whether a smartphone app called BlinkLab Dx1 can help doctors diagnose autism in children ages 2 to 11. The app shows videos and sounds, then measures how children react. Parents also answer questions about their child's development. The goal is to see if th…

Researchers at Indiana University are studying whether a short, non-invasive eye-tracking test can help detect autism risk in children aged 12 to 48 months. The test uses a camera to measure eye movements and pupil size while children watch pictures and videos. Results will be co…

This study is testing a new test called the Five Digits Test (FDT) to see if it can measure a person's ability to stop automatic responses—a skill often affected in ADHD and autism. The FDT does not require reading, making it useful for people with different language backgrounds.…

This study is testing a device called SenseToKnow that uses video and a caregiver survey to help detect autism in children aged 16 to 36 months. The goal is to see how accurate the device is compared to a doctor's diagnosis. About 350 children from Duke Health will take part.

This study explores whether visiting a museum can support the social and emotional well-being of autistic adults. Researchers plan to enroll 90 autistic adults aged 18 to 50 with average intellectual ability. Participants choose one of three options: a solo museum visit, five gui…

This pilot study tests a bedtime routine called 'The Power Down' for autistic children aged 6 to 10 who have trouble settling down to sleep. The routine uses gentle massage and calming sounds to help children relax before bed. Caregivers will lead the routine each night for two w…

This study tests whether AI-powered modules, accessed through a phone or computer app, can help autistic individuals improve social communication. Participants practice skills like empathy, asking questions, and listening, receiving feedback via voice recognition. The goal is to …

This early-phase trial tests whether the steroid prednisone can improve core autism symptoms in 32 adult males with an immune-mediated subtype of autism. Participants take prednisone or a placebo daily for 16 weeks, with regular check-ins and questionnaires. The goal is to see if…

This trial tests whether sertraline, a widely used antidepressant, can reduce anxiety in children and teens aged 8 to 17 with neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism, ADHD, Fragile X syndrome, and Tourette syndrome. Participants receive either sertraline or a placebo for seve…

This study looks at how sensory sensitivity affects sleep and emotions in autistic children ages 6-10. Researchers will test a simple bedtime routine called Power Down, where caregivers give their child a gentle massage to help them relax before sleep. The goal is to see if this …

This early-stage study tests a group program called HEART for autistic adolescents aged 13 to 18. The program focuses on improving how teens understand and regulate their emotions. Researchers will check if the training is practical and helpful, using parent questionnaires to mea…

This study tests whether a 16-week behavioral therapy called Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT) works better when done at a center or at home for young children with autism who have language delays. Researchers will compare both groups to children receiving usual care. The goal is …

This study tests a 12-week behavioral therapy program delivered via video calls to help autistic youth (ages 4-17) cope with insistence on sameness—difficulty tolerating changes in routine. Parents are trained to support their child during weekly sessions. The goal is to see if t…

This pilot study tests whether esomeprazole (Nexium), a common stomach acid medication, can improve social communication in 25 children with autism aged 2 to 6. Over 12 weeks, kids take the drug daily, and researchers measure changes in social behavior using standard rating scale…

This study tests whether folinic acid (a form of vitamin B9) can reduce irritability and improve behavior in 150 children aged 3 to 6 with autism. Half will get folinic acid, half a placebo, for 9 weeks. Researchers will also check if it helps with communication, sleep, and gut s…

This study tests whether a parent-led online program can improve sleep in autistic children aged 3 to 7 years. About 130 children will be randomly assigned to one of two behavioral sleep programs for 10 weeks. The goal is to see if the structured program reduces insomnia symptoms…

This study tests a specially adapted early intervention for young Hispanic autistic children (18-42 months) from low-income families. The program, called CLR-Pathways, is delivered by bilingual coaches in the home and focuses on improving social communication and daily skills. Re…

This study adapts a group therapy program called Regulating Together for children aged 8-12 with autism and intellectual disability who struggle with emotions like irritability and aggression. The therapy uses relaxation, mindfulness, and parent training to help kids regulate the…

This study tests a brief online program called Project Independence for caregivers of autistic youth aged 10 to 14. The program gives practical tools to help kids build daily living skills like dressing or chores. About 70 caregivers will be randomly assigned to the program or an…

This pilot study tests whether a trauma-focused therapy (TF-CBT) adapted for autistic youth is practical and well-received in community mental health centers. About 24 autistic children and their therapists will participate. The goal is to see if the therapy is acceptable and fea…

This study tests whether guided breathing exercises can help autistic young adults (ages 16-25) manage stress and improve heart rate variability, a measure of how well the body handles stress. Participants will practice two types of slow breathing exercises and report how useful …

This pilot study tests a digital coaching program for autistic young adults aged 18 to 35. The program uses two conversational agents to deliver personalized goal-setting and support based on a proven model called COMPASS. Over 10 weeks, 38 participants will use the app to work o…

This study tests two approaches in public schools: a teacher-led program (RUBIES) to reduce challenging behaviors in autistic children, and a leadership strategy (HELM) to help schools keep using effective methods. About 373 teachers and students in grades K-5 will take part. The…

This study tests a Spanish-language program called Unstuck and On Target for children ages 8-11 with autism and/or ADHD. The program helps kids improve skills like planning and flexibility, and supports their caregivers. About 40 families will either join the program right away o…

This study tests a special speech therapy for minimally verbal children who have both autism and childhood apraxia of speech (a motor planning disorder). The therapy uses motor learning principles in a natural play-like setting. Researchers will enroll 20 children to see if this …

This study tests whether a drug called pimavanserin can reduce rigid, repetitive behaviors in people with autism. About 30 adolescents and adults aged 12 to 40 will receive either the drug or a placebo, then switch. The goal is to see if it improves flexibility and reduces compul…

This study tests if a marijuana-based drug (mostly CBD with a little THC) can reduce anxiety in adults with autism. About 108 people aged 18 to 45 will take the drug or a placebo daily for 8 weeks. Researchers will track anxiety, social skills, and repetitive behaviors through we…

This study tests whether diphenhydramine (Benadryl) can help children and teens with autism fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly. Twenty-six participants aged 8 to 17 will receive either Benadryl or a placebo in a crossover design, with sleep measured by brain waves and acti…

This study tests whether suvorexant (Belsomra) can improve sleep in teenagers with autism spectrum disorder. About 26 teens aged 13-17 will receive either the drug or a placebo in a crossover design over 8 weeks. Researchers will measure sleep quality using brain wave recordings …

This study tests whether zolpidem, a sleep medication, can improve sleep in children and teens with autism. About 26 participants aged 8-17 will receive either the drug or a placebo for 8 weeks, then switch. The goal is to see if the drug helps them fall asleep faster and sleep m…

This study compares two parenting programs for parents of children aged 2-6 with autism spectrum disorder. One is a structured 13-week group program (Incredible Years), the other is a shorter workshop series. The goal is to see if the longer program reduces parent stress and impr…

This study is testing two group programs for autistic middle-schoolers who are fully included in regular classes. One program focuses on organization, planning, and study skills; the other on social skills. 224 teens and their parents will be randomly assigned to one of the two p…

This study tests a new therapy called TUNE In for adults with autism who struggle with social situations. The therapy helps with social motivation, anxiety, and skills. About 40 adults will take part to see if it improves their social functioning.

This study tests whether high-dose vitamin B6 supplements can reduce anxiety and sensory over-reactivity in autistic adults. Researchers will compare a group taking vitamin B6 to a group taking a placebo. The trial involves 40 participants aged 18 to 60 with an autism diagnosis.

This study tests whether a postbiotic dietary supplement called PostbiotiX Comfort® can improve gut and behavioral symptoms in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Researchers will give the supplement daily for one month to 90 children aged 3-8 years. They will measure c…

This study looks at whether Adderall XR can reduce ADHD symptoms in children and teens (ages 8-18) who also have autism. Participants will take the medication or a placebo for 4 weeks and complete brain scans to measure changes in attention, impulsivity, and memory. The goal is t…

This study looks at whether playing pickleball twice a week for 8 weeks can improve movement, sleep, mood, and core autism traits in adults aged 18-45 with autism spectrum disorder. Participants are randomly assigned to start pickleball right away or after a delay. The goal is to…

This study tests a technique called Wilbarger Deep Pressure and Proprioceptive Technique (DPPT) in 40 autistic children aged 6-10 who have trouble with motor skills and sleep. The therapy involves gentle brushing, joint compressions, and calming activities for 30-45 minutes, thre…

This pilot study tests a 16-week telehealth program that coaches parents to help their autistic children who struggle with insistence on sameness—like needing things to stay the same or getting upset over changes. Researchers will see if parents can learn the techniques and if ch…

This study compares cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with online expert coaching to usual care for children aged 6-14 with autism who struggle with anxiety, irritability, or emotional outbursts. About 100 children and 50 therapists will take part. The goal is to see if the coac…

This study tests whether a 6-week virtual magic trick training program can improve social and emotional skills in adolescents with autism. Sixty teens aged 11-18 will learn tricks from a magician and practice presenting them. Researchers will measure changes in social knowledge, …

This pilot study tests whether a combination of two natural compounds, L-theanine and paraxanthine, can temporarily improve attention and self-control in adults with ADHD or autism. About 24 participants will complete thinking tests and brain scans after taking the supplement or …

This study tests whether virtual reality (VR) can help children with autism learn to recognize and understand emotions. Thirty children aged 7 to 10 will either use an Oculus VR headset or traditional methods to practice identifying feelings like joy, anger, and shame. The goal i…

This study tests whether a gentle brain stimulation technique called tDCS, given while doing social learning tasks on a computer, can reduce anxiety and improve social skills in adults with autism. Twenty high-functioning adults will receive both real and fake (sham) stimulation …

This study tests whether training caregivers of young autistic children (18–72 months) in South Africa can improve the child's communication and daily living skills. Non-specialist coaches teach caregivers strategies they can use during everyday activities. The goal is to support…

This study tests a mobile team of pain specialists who visit children and young adults (up to age 25) with moderate to severe intellectual disabilities, autism, or multiple disabilities. The team works with families and caregivers to assess and manage pain in the patient's usual …

This study tests a gentle brain stimulation technique called tDCS in 150 teens with autism. The goal is to see if it can improve social skills, thinking, and behavior, and whether extra 'booster' sessions help the effects last longer. Participants will receive multiple sessions o…

This study tests whether a cannabis oil containing CBD, terpenes, and a small amount of THC can reduce challenging behaviors and social difficulties in children with autism. About 78 children aged 4 to 12 will take either the cannabis oil or a placebo for 2 months, then all may r…

This study tests a 10-week group program called SDARI that uses acting games and activities to help autistic young adults (ages 18-30) feel more connected and improve their social relationships. Half the participants will do SDARI, while the other half does other structured activ…

This Phase 2 trial tests whether cannabidivarin (CBDV), a compound from cannabis, can reduce irritability and repetitive behaviors in children with autism spectrum disorder. About 100 children aged 5 to 18 will receive either CBDV or a placebo daily for several weeks. Researchers…

This study tests a training program for caregivers of adolescents (ages 10-17) with profound autism. The training teaches caregivers how to use picture-based activity schedules to help their child complete tasks on their own. Researchers will see if the training is practical and …

This study in Norway is testing whether nature-based group activities—like outdoor education and therapy—can improve quality of life for 240 children and youth with ADHD, autism, or Tourette's. Participants will take part in 10- to 12-week programs in schools or healthcare settin…

This study tests a remote therapy model called STAR for toddlers with autism. 110 children will be split into two groups: one receiving STAR therapy plus community care, and the other receiving only community care. The goal is to see if STAR improves social and communication skil…

This study aims to understand the genetic causes of brain development disorders, including Aicardi syndrome, polymicrogyria, and Dandy-Walker malformation. Researchers will analyze genetic data from 2000 participants with these conditions, all confirmed by MRI. The goal is to use…

This study aims to learn more about childhood-onset behavioral, psychiatric, and developmental disorders by observing people of all ages who have these conditions, along with their family members. Researchers will collect medical histories, perform psychiatric assessments, and ma…

This study follows pregnant women and their children from the first trimester through toddlerhood to explore how stress, early social experiences, and genetics interact. Using simple at-home activities like questionnaires, video recordings, and cheek swabs, researchers will look …

This study looks at whether adults with autism can reliably report their own personality disorder traits using a standard questionnaire. Researchers compare these self-reports with descriptions from someone who knows the participant well, such as a family member or partner. The g…

This study tests a mobile health program called FANS-EI that aims to support caregivers of young autistic children in staying engaged with early interventions. Researchers will measure caregiver comfort, participation, and sense of support. The study involves 28 caregiver-child p…

This study looks at whether a parent training program can help autistic toddlers (ages 12-36 months) learn to manage their emotions. Researchers will work with 40 families and early intervention providers to see if the program is practical and helpful. The goal is to improve supp…

This pilot study will develop and test a toolkit that helps therapists tailor mental health treatment for autistic individuals. Researchers will first hold focus groups to understand barriers, then create a resource for therapists. The toolkit will be tested with 18 autistic teen…

This study screens up to 5,000 healthy volunteers and people at risk for psychiatric or neurodevelopmental disorders like autism. Participants undergo interviews, cognitive tests, and other evaluations to see if they qualify for future research studies at NIH. The goal is to buil…

This study looks at how using single words or short phrases (instead of full sentences) affects language processing and word learning in young children with autism, ages 1 to 4. Researchers will show children screen-based tasks and track their eye movements to see which type of l…

This study explores whether autistic adults have too much 'plasticity' (flexibility) in the part of the brain that controls movement, and if a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called rTMS can reduce that over-plasticity to improve motor function. Researchers will compare …

This study is testing a new, quicker way to diagnose autism in toddlers aged 16-30 months who are already flagged as high risk. Researchers will track how many families are referred, agree to join, and complete the process, including a telehealth option. The goal is to see if thi…

This observational study follows up to 2,000 people with Williams syndrome or related chromosome changes, along with their family members. Researchers will track health, development, behavior, and quality of life from childhood through adulthood. They are also building a biobank …

This study compares two strategies for teaching new words to autistic children aged 4 to 10: repeating words (re-study) versus quizzing after labeling (repeated quizzing). Researchers want to see which method helps children learn nouns and adjectives better and whether they can u…

This study follows 50 children and adults with Baker Gordon Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder, to track how the condition changes over time. Participants will undergo brain scans, EEGs, and genetic testing, and complete developmental assessments. The goal is to create better tool…

This study tests whether an online training course can teach parents of children with autism (ages 2-5) a therapy technique called Pivotal Response Treatment. Researchers will check if parents learn the technique and if children's communication improves. 44 families will particip…

This study aims to find the best way to train early intervention providers to deliver high-quality services to children under 3 with communication delays or autism. Researchers will compare two training models for a program called Project ImPACT, measuring how well therapists lea…

This study looks at whether sensitivity to rhythm can predict how well autistic toddlers respond to a social-communication therapy. Forty toddlers aged 18-36 months will receive either standard imitation training or a music-enhanced version. Researchers will track eye gaze to see…

This study tests a new training program called EMIT that helps young autistic children learn to imitate others. Imitation is a key skill for learning and social interaction. The program uses play-based exercises to teach children how to copy actions, sounds, and object use. The s…

This study aims to improve how healthcare professionals recognize autism in older adults and to test a psychoeducation program for those diagnosed. Around 120 participants aged 55 and older with an autism diagnosis will take part. The goal is to see if better training for doctors…

This study tests a smartphone app called Footsteps that helps school aides track behaviors of children aged 4-17 with conditions like autism, ADHD, or oppositional defiant disorder. The goal is to see if the app improves how consistently and accurately aides record data, and whet…

This study looks at how autistic people who also have anorexia nervosa differ in brain structure and behavior from autistic people without anorexia. Researchers want to understand if 'masking' (acting non-autistic to fit in) is linked to eating disorder symptoms and brain changes…

This study tests a remote training program for autistic teens and young adults (ages 13-21) and their primary caregiver. The program teaches strategies to improve thinking and daily life skills. The goal is to see if the program is practical and helpful for participants.

This pilot study is testing a program called CRUSH, which is a sexual health curriculum designed specifically for autistic adults aged 18 to 30. The program includes group sessions and one-on-one coaching to teach about relationships and sexual health. The goal is to see if the p…

This study tests an online training program called WE PLAY for Parents, designed to help parents of young children with autism (ages 3-5) encourage more physical activity. About 114 parents will be randomly assigned to take the training right away or wait 3 months. Researchers wi…

This study explores whether playing specially designed sounds through headphones can normalize brain activity in children aged 5-10 with Fragile X Syndrome or autism. The goal is to reduce sensory sensitivity and improve learning. Participants will listen to sounds while their br…

This study looks at when to start a parent coaching program called JASPER Babble for infants who have an older sibling with autism, putting them at higher risk. About 140 babies will join at 6-8 months old and be randomly assigned to start coaching at 9, 12, or 15 months. Researc…

This study uses magnetoencephalography (MEG), a non-invasive brain scan, to compare brain signals in 1,500 children with neurodevelopmental disorders (like epilepsy, autism, ADHD) and healthy children. The goal is to improve diagnosis and understanding of these conditions. No tre…

This study follows 100 infants and toddlers with either a high or low family risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Researchers will track how prosocial behaviors—like helping and understanding others—develop, along with brain network changes measured by EEG and MRI. The goal is…

This study aims to identify sensory patterns in autistic individuals from childhood to adulthood. Researchers will use questionnaires and brain imaging (fMRI and EEG) to explore how sensory experiences relate to social challenges like avoiding eye contact or touch. The goal is to…

This study is testing a program that helps teachers and parents work together to support preschoolers who have trouble with social communication. The program is run by preschool staff and uses proven teaching methods. Researchers want to see if the program is easy to use and if f…

This study looks at balance problems in children with autism aged 6 to 10. Using a virtual reality system, researchers will measure how kids stand still and see if balance is linked to thinking skills. The goal is to better understand these challenges, not to test a treatment.

This study looks at how movement and sensory differences in children with autism might serve as early signs of the condition. Researchers will follow 300 participants, including autistic children, their parents, and infants at higher risk, over time. The goal is to link these phy…

This study tests an online program called OPT-In-Early for parents of 120 toddlers (16-48 months old) on waitlists for an autism diagnosis. The program provides training and support to help parents address their child's developmental needs before a formal diagnosis. Researchers w…

This study looks at how autism affects motor functions like strength, balance, and coordination in adults aged 18 to 45. Researchers will also test whether a 6-week virtual reality training program can help improve these skills. The goal is to better understand the link between m…

This study observes 100 people with rare genetic neurodevelopmental disorders like Baker Gordon Syndrome and Syt-1 disorder. Researchers will track symptoms, collect genetic and imaging data, and create cell models to better understand these conditions. The goal is to improve dia…

This study pairs autistic adults (ages 18-36) with a non-autistic learning partner, like a parent. The autistic adult takes emotional intelligence training, while the partner learns how to better accommodate autism. Both then rate how well the trainings worked for themselves and …

This study is looking at the DNA of 3,800 people with autism to find genetic changes that might be linked to the condition. Researchers hope to better understand which genes are involved and how they affect brain function. The goal is to lay the groundwork for future treatments, …

This study tests a dual executive function training program for 288 primary school children aged 6-12 with ADHD, dyslexia, or autism. The program includes weekly group sessions to improve thinking, emotional control, and behavior. Researchers will measure changes in memory, atten…

This study is creating a registry for children with PTEN Hamartoma Tumor Syndrome (PHTS), a rare genetic condition that increases cancer risk. Researchers will follow 100 participants for 3 years to link genetic changes with health outcomes. The goal is to develop better monitori…

This study looks at whether brain scans can predict which young children with autism (ages 2 to 4) will improve their language skills after 16 weeks of Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT), a behavioral therapy. About 36 children will be randomly assigned to receive PRT right away or…

Researchers at UT Dallas are studying whether 'parentese' — the sing-song, high-pitched speech parents often use with babies — helps autistic children learn new words. The study will involve 100 children aged 18 to 59 months, with and without an autism diagnosis. Children will wa…

This study looks at how a brain area called the cerebellum influences social and thinking abilities in young adults with and without autism. Researchers will use a gentle brain stimulation technique and brain scans to see how it changes these skills. The goal is to better underst…