Autism

This study tests whether aripiprazole, a medication already used for behavioral symptoms, remains safe and tolerable for children and adolescents with autistic disorder when taken daily for up to a year. Most participants will have already completed a short-term trial of the drug…

This trial tests whether a 12-week exercise program can improve motor skills, aerobic capacity, and quality of life in children aged 5–13 with autism spectrum disorder. Participants do activities like walking, balancing, and ball games. Researchers compare them to a non-exercisin…

Autistic children drown at 160 times the rate of their peers, yet standard swim lessons often fail them. This study tests a new approach that adapts instruction based on a child's sensory profile—whether they seek, avoid, or have mixed reactions to sensory input. Researchers will…

This study tests whether a group-based behavioral program, where caregivers are actively involved, can help autistic preschoolers improve social communication, play skills, and daily adaptation. The program is compared to one-on-one therapy. Researchers will measure changes in au…

This study tested a computer program called Work Chat that helps young adults with autism practice conversations with coworkers, customers, and supervisors in a virtual workplace. 44 participants used the tool to improve social skills needed for jobs. The goal is to help more peo…

This study tested whether a 16-week lifestyle program delivered through WeChat could help children with autism (ages 8-12) manage their weight. 276 families were split into three groups: usual care, the WeChat program alone, or the program plus weekly group coaching. The main goa…

This study tested the drug allopurinol in 8 children and adults with adenylosuccinate lyase deficiency (ADSL), a rare genetic disorder that can cause autism, seizures, and developmental delays. Researchers measured changes in thinking, daily skills, and seizure control over 12 mo…

This study tested whether stem cells taken from a child's own bone marrow could improve autism symptoms. Thirty children aged 5 to 15 received an injection of their own stem cells into the spinal fluid. Researchers measured changes in behavior and social skills over six months us…

This study tested whether a portable eye-tracking device can help diagnose autism in young children in Kenya. 27 children aged 14-72 months watched pictures and videos while the device measured their eye movements. The goal was to see if these eye-tracking patterns match a clinic…

This study tested whether an iPad game (Play.Care) could help diagnose autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children aged 2.5 to 5 years. The game measures how children move while playing, since movement differences may be early signs of autism. Researchers compared the game's resul…

This study tested whether a special MRI technique called ASL-MRI can measure blood flow in the brains of children with autism. The goal was to see if this could be used as a non-invasive diagnostic tool, similar to PET scans but without radiation. Researchers studied 115 children…

This study tested a device called EarliPoint that tracks where children look while watching short videos. The goal was to see if it could help diagnose autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children ages 2.5 to 7. Nearly 1,000 children participated, and the device's results were comp…

This study tested whether a specialized swim program (Sensory Enhanced Aquatics) helps autistic children aged 5-9 learn swimming and water safety better than standard lessons. Fifty-one children participated in 16 half-hour lessons. Researchers measured swimming skills before and…

This trial tests whether low-frequency whole body vibration—standing on a gently vibrating platform—can improve motor skills and sensory integration in children aged 5 to 9 with mild to moderate autism. Participants receive vibration sessions alongside routine physical therapy, a…

This study compares online parent coaching to in-person coaching for improving social communication in toddlers with autism or social communication delays. About 188 children aged 18-33 months will take part. Parents learn techniques to engage their child during play, aiming to i…

This study tests whether combining two types of exercises—sensory motor training and special stretches—can reduce toe walking and improve foot posture in children with mild autism. Researchers will measure changes in foot position and sensory responses in 36 children. The goal is…

This trial tests whether daily omega-3 fish oil supplements can improve sleep, mood, and behavior in children who have sleep problems and symptoms of ADHD, autism, or both. The study takes a symptom-focused approach, aiming to identify which specific difficulties—like emotional u…

This study tested a special light helmet (called tPBM) on 6 autistic children aged 4–12 who also had abnormal brain activity or epilepsy. The helmet delivered near-infrared light to specific brain areas twice a week for 10 weeks. The goal was to see if it could safely improve foc…

This study tests a new therapy for young children (ages 2-5) with autism who use few or no words. The therapy involves parents or therapists responding to the child's sounds and gently encouraging more vocalizations. Researchers will see if this approach helps children make more …

This study tested a 16-week sensory-friendly physical activity program for autistic children aged 7-12 in special education schools. The program included predictable routines and calming cool-downs to help with sleep. Researchers measured sleep quality using wrist monitors and pa…

This pilot trial explores whether Nintendo Switch exergaming—active video games like RingFit Adventure and Switch Sports—can improve motor skills in autistic youth aged 5 to 30. Participants are randomly assigned to an exergaming group or a no-intervention control group. The stud…

This study is testing a behavioral therapy called 'Being Brave' to help reduce anxiety in autistic children aged 3 to 6. The therapy involves 16 weekly sessions with parents and children, using visual aids and practice exercises. Researchers will also look at biological markers t…

This trial tests whether a device called Cognilum, which shines light on the head (transcranial photobiomodulation), can reduce autism symptoms in children aged 2 to 7 with moderate to severe autism. Children wear the device for up to 15 minutes twice a week for 10 weeks. Researc…

This study tests whether a brief, telehealth-delivered therapy called Written Exposure Therapy (WET) can help autistic adults who have experienced trauma. Participants complete five weekly writing sessions and wear a Fitbit to track sleep, activity, and heart rate. The goal is to…

This pilot study in Pakistan tests a culturally adapted psychological therapy (Y-CMAP) for autistic young people aged 14-24 who have a history of self-harm. The therapy is based on cognitive behavioral therapy and includes 8-10 sessions over three months. The study will check if …

This study tested whether a single infusion of stem cells from donated umbilical cord tissue could improve social communication in children with autism. 137 children aged 4 to 12 took part. The main goal was to see if their socialization and communication scores improved after si…

This study tested whether adding group music therapy to standard speech therapy helps autistic children aged 3-5 improve their language and social skills. Forty children were split into two groups: one got music therapy plus usual speech therapy, the other only speech therapy. Af…

This study tested whether an intensive, center-based version of Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT) can improve social communication in preschoolers with autism. 75 children aged 2 to 4 years participated. The therapy combined weekly parent training with center-based sessions for a …

This study tested a structured online program for parents of children with autism or ADHD. 90 families took part to see if the program could lower parental stress, improve coping skills, and boost social support. Researchers compared parents who received the program to those who …

This study tested a new behavior therapy for teens with autism who struggle with irritability and aggression. The therapy teaches emotion regulation and coping skills for the challenges of growing up. 65 adolescents participated, and researchers measured changes in aggressive beh…

This study tested a program called ASPEN, which coaches parents of young children with autism in low-resource communities. The program includes 12 sessions teaching parents strategies to improve their child's social communication and play skills, while also reducing parenting str…

This study tested whether a natural supplement called ultramicronized palmitoylethanolamide (umPEA) can improve smell, taste, and other sensory issues in children with autism. Eighty children took either umPEA or a standard treatment (probiotics plus omega-3) for six months. Rese…

This study looked at whether a 10-week supervised physical activity program is practical and well-liked by mothers of children with developmental disabilities. Nineteen mothers were enrolled to attend three 60-minute group exercise sessions per week. The goal was to see if the pr…

This study tested whether a nasal spray containing vasopressin, a natural hormone, can improve social functioning in children with autism. 157 children aged 6 to 17 took part. Researchers measured changes in social responsiveness and overall symptoms over 8 weeks.

This study tested an experimental drug called ML-004 in 168 adolescents and adults with autism spectrum disorder to see if it could improve social communication skills. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either the drug or a placebo for several weeks. The main goal wa…

This study tested whether aripiprazole (Abilify) can reduce serious behavioral problems in children and teens aged 6 to 17 with autistic disorder. 98 participants received either the drug or a placebo for 8 weeks. Researchers measured changes in irritability and overall improveme…

This study tested whether aripiprazole (Abilify) can reduce serious behavioral problems in children and adolescents with autistic disorder. 218 participants aged 6 to 17 received either a fixed dose of aripiprazole or a placebo daily for 8 weeks. The main goal was to see if the d…

This study adapted a behavioral activation treatment called BeatIt-MV to help improve mood in minimally verbal autistic adults with depression. Nine adults took part, along with a caregiver. The therapy focused on increasing meaningful activities like recreation and social time. …

This study tested whether wrapping children with autism in sheets (wet or dry) can reduce severe injurious behaviors like self-harm or aggression. 48 children took part, and researchers compared wet wraps to dry wraps. The goal was to see if this gentle, drug-free approach could …

This study tested a new psychological treatment for autistic young people who struggle with overwhelming sensory experiences, like sounds or lights. Twenty-five participants completed a group therapy program and did tasks before and after to see if their brain responses and anxie…

This pilot study tested a community-based group programme called 'Encompass' for parents of children under 5 with complex neurodisability. Fifteen parents in East London attended ten group sessions over six months. The study aimed to see if the programme was feasible and acceptab…

This study tested a therapy called Sentido's Model in 24 children aged 3 to 7 with autism or other neurodevelopmental challenges. The therapy combines behavior analysis, sensory integration, and stress science to help children improve adaptive behaviors like communication and dai…

This study tested whether pregnenolone, a natural hormone in the brain, can help reduce irritability and improve social communication in people with autism. 40 participants aged 14 to 25 took either pregnenolone or a placebo for several weeks. Researchers measured changes in beha…

This study tested an in-person mindfulness program for adolescents with autism and their caregivers. The goal was to help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. 28 teens and their caregivers took part in group sessions. The program aimed to improve mental health and well-being.

This study tested whether having a therapy dog present during dental visits could reduce anxiety and improve cooperation in autistic children aged 6 to 17. Fifty children received two sessions with a dog and one without. The goal was to see if the dog's presence made later visits…

This study looked at whether circuit aerobic training (like walking and stepping) or circuit resistance training (like hand grip exercises) can improve heart and lung fitness in children with autism aged 7 to 17. Thirty-two children took part, and researchers measured their breat…

This study looked at how 10 months of judo training affects physical fitness and anxiety in children with autism. Ninety kids aged 7 to 14, with and without autism, trained together. Researchers measured fitness with standard tests and anxiety with questionnaires. The goal was to…

This study tested whether an 8-week mindfulness-based stress reduction program could lower depression, anxiety, stress, and hopelessness in parents of children with autism. 96 parents took part in weekly 60-minute group sessions. The goal is to see if this simple, non-drug approa…

This study tested whether a mild electrical stimulation to the ear (taVNS) can help manage symptoms of autism spectrum disorder in teens aged 12-17. Sixteen participants used the device at home for one month and had MRI brain scans before and after to track changes. The goal was …

This study tested a device called transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM), which shines invisible light on the front of the brain through a headband. Researchers wanted to see if it is safe and can improve social and behavioral symptoms in adults with autism. Forty-one adults took…

This study tested a theatre-based program called SENSE Theatre for adults with autism. 72 participants took part in 10 sessions of role-play and peer interaction, ending with a public performance. The goal was to see if this approach could improve social skills like reading faces…

This study tested a flexible, play-based program to improve social communication and language in toddlers (ages 2-3) with autism. 199 children took part in community early-intervention settings. The program adjusted the type and amount of one-on-one play coaching based on each ch…

This study tested whether a daily routine of gentle massage and deep breathing, called qigong sensory training, could help children with autism who have trouble processing sensory information. Twenty-six children aged 4 to 12 received 15-minute sessions twice a day, five days a w…

This study tested a 22-week online parenting program (Incredible Years) for families of children aged 3-7 with genetic abnormalities and mental health or developmental problems. 53 families were randomly assigned to the program or usual care. The goal was to see if parents would …

This study tested a light therapy called transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM) to see if it could safely reduce autistic traits and ADHD symptoms in children and teens. 38 participants aged 9 to 17 with ADHD and at least moderate autism symptoms received the treatment. The goal …

This study tested an online sleep program for preschool-aged children with autism who have trouble sleeping. 20 children participated to see if the program was easy to use and helped improve sleep. The goal was to make sleep help more accessible for families.

This study tested the drug atomoxetine in 60 children with autism who also had significant hyperactivity, inattention, or impulsivity. Over 8 weeks, researchers measured changes in ADHD symptoms using a standard rating scale. The goal was to see if atomoxetine could safely reduce…

This study tested whether teaching social skills to autistic children and educating their classmates can improve social relationships at school. Sixty children in kindergarten through 5th grade took part in 30-minute sessions twice a week for six weeks. The goal was to see if the…

This pilot study tested whether lithium can improve social communication in children with autism spectrum disorder who also have a SHANK3 gene mutation (Phelan-McDermid syndrome). 22 children took either lithium or a placebo for 12 weeks. Researchers measured changes in social re…

This study tested whether taking part in art activities (like painting, music, or dance) can improve mental well-being. 382 people with mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or emotional disorders were randomly assigned to either an art program or a waitlist. The stud…

This study aimed to understand the brain and genetics behind autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Researchers compared brain scans, thinking tests, and DNA from 678 people with ASD, healthy volunteers, and their parents. The goal was to find links between brain activity, behavior, an…

This pilot trial is testing whether a program called CRUSH, designed to teach sexual health and relationship skills, is practical and well-received by autistic adults aged 18 to 30. Participants will attend 15-20 group sessions with one-on-one coaching and complete assessments be…

This study follows nearly 600 people with Smith-Magenis syndrome (SMS), a rare genetic condition, to track how their health, behavior, and development change over time. Researchers will perform detailed medical exams, genetic tests, and surveys to better understand the syndrome's…

This study looks at how the gut microbiome and its chemical byproducts relate to gastrointestinal and behavioral symptoms in children with autism. By tracking 23 participants over time, researchers hope to identify biological markers that could one day help manage these symptoms.…

This study explored why some children with autism respond better to parent-led therapies than others. Researchers tested different sequences of parent education and child coaching in 81 toddlers (12-36 months) to see which approach worked best for which families. The goal was to …

This study adapts an existing advocacy program, called ASSIST, for Latinx families of autistic youth aged 12 and older. The program teaches parents how to advocate for adult disability services, aiming to improve access to care. Researchers will test the adapted program with 48 S…

This completed study looked for genetic changes linked to autism spectrum disorder in over 1,600 participants. Researchers focused on genes involved in brain cell communication, hoping to understand which biological pathways are involved. The goal was to gather knowledge that cou…

This study tested a family navigator program and a smartphone app to help low-resourced families of young children (ages 3-5) with autism find and access services. 52 families took part. The program aimed to improve parents' knowledge, skills, and confidence in getting support fo…

This study looked at how children with autism (without intellectual disability) form and recall paired memories, like linking a face to a name. Researchers used EEG brain scans and memory tests to compare 74 right-handed children aged 10-18, half with autism and half without. The…

This study looked at 60 teens ages 12 to 18 to see if those with Avoidant and Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) had more feeding problems before age 4 compared to healthy teens. Researchers used questionnaires to check early feeding history, growth, and sensory sensitiviti…

This study used brain scans like MEG, EEG, and MRI to learn how the brains of people with autism spectrum disorder process sensory information. 85 people between the ages of 14 and 32 took part. The goal was to better understand the condition, not to test a new treatment.

This study created a database of 40 people, including healthy volunteers and those with autism spectrum disorder, to make it easier to recruit for future research. Participants were between 14 and 32 years old. The goal was to build a pool of willing volunteers for upcoming studi…

This study tested a training program for teachers of preschool children with autism. Forty teachers from mainstream schools in Barcelona took part. The program aimed to give teachers practical tools to support children with autism in the classroom. The main goal was to see if tea…

This study looked at the types of bacteria in the mouth and the levels of a protective antibody in the saliva of children with autism, aged 6 to 18. Researchers collected dental plaque and saliva samples to compare with dental health. The goal was to learn more about oral health …

This study followed 344 infants with a sibling diagnosed with autism from birth to age three. Researchers collected blood, stool, urine, and saliva samples to find early biological markers that might predict autism. The goal is to better understand how autism develops and eventua…

This completed study followed 509 children aged 3 to 18 who were taking risperidone or aripiprazole for conditions like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. Researchers measured weight changes over up to 50 months to understand long-term risks. The goal was to provide better safety…

This completed study looked at how teenagers with autism or schizophrenia understand emotions, metaphors, and social situations compared to healthy teens. Researchers tested 60 participants using facial emotion recognition and other tasks. The goal was to find out if social diffi…

This study looked at new ways to help children with autism who also have severe destructive behaviors, like aggression or self-harm. The goal was to make communication therapy more flexible and prevent bad behaviors from coming back when therapy is interrupted. Nine children aged…

This study looked at gut bacteria in children with autism and their neurotypical siblings who live together. Researchers collected stool samples from 20 children aged 3 to 10. The goal was to compare the types of bacteria and other substances in the gut. This was an observational…

This study looked at how children with autism and typically developing children perform physical tasks like standing still or walking when they also have to do a thinking task at the same time. Researchers tested 90 children aged 5 to 16 using a balance board and a walking app. T…

This study tested JASPER, a play-based therapy for autism, in 84 toddlers aged 18 months to 5 years. Children were randomly assigned to receive JASPER from a clinician or their parent. The goal was to see if two new measurement tools (BOSCC and ELSA-T) could track changes in soci…

This study tested a virtual educational program called FLAPS, designed to help members of organizations learn how to support suicide prevention for autistic people. Fifty-one participants completed surveys before, after, and three months after the program, and some gave interview…

This study used special PET and MRI scans to look at brain activity in 27 men with autism, Fragile X syndrome, or no condition. The goal was to measure a brain chemical called glutamate, which helps nerve cells communicate. Researchers hope this will reveal how brain signaling di…

This study tested a training program to help autistic adults learn to use rideshare services like Uber or Lyft. 13 autistic adults took part to see if the training was acceptable and helpful. The goal was to give them more freedom to travel independently for work, social events, …

This study looked at 40 children with autism and 40 healthy children, ages 5 to 10, to see how posture, hand function, and sensory processing affect nutrition. Researchers measured head posture, balance, hand strength, and feeding behaviors. They found that children with autism h…

This completed study tested a device called EarliPoint that uses eye-tracking to monitor changes in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or developmental delays. Researchers followed 325 children aged 15-84 months over 180 days to see if the device could detect improvemen…

This study looked at how foot posture and body measurements relate to balance in 22 children with autism spectrum disorder, aged 5 to 18. The children performed simple balance and walking tests while researchers measured their feet. The goal was to understand if foot structure af…