Brain zaps may sharpen focus in autistic teens, study hopes
NCT ID NCT06878326
First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026
Summary
This study tests whether a gentle, non-invasive brain stimulation technique called tDCS can improve cognitive functions like reaction time, memory, and multitasking in 90 adolescents with autism (ages 12–22). Each participant will receive three types of stimulation (including a sham/placebo) in random order, with at least a week between sessions. The researchers also use EEG brain scans to see if brain connectivity patterns can predict who benefits most.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) device
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could point toward a non-drug way to improve cognitive function in some adolescents with autism.
- What could go wrong
- This is an early, small study (90 people) testing only short-term effects. It may not lead to a lasting treatment, and results may not apply to everyone with autism.
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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
RECRUITINGHung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong
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