Brain scans may predict autism therapy success in toddlers

NCT ID NCT03583684

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Stanford University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

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 after a delay. The goal is to find brain-based markers that show who is most likely to benefit, helping tailor treatments in the future.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT) - a behavioral therapy program
What this could lead to: If successful, this could help doctors predict which children with autism will benefit most from PRT, personalizing treatment early.
What could go wrong: This is a small pilot study with only 36 children, so results may not apply to everyone. It focuses on finding predictors, not proving the therapy works.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

autism autism spectrum disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

AUTISM AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

Stanford University
RECRUITING

Stanford, California, 94305-5719, United States

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