Cerebellum and Autism: Regional Specialization for Social and Executive Functions
RecruitingHealthy volunteers welcome
Who can join
Ages 18 to 35 · All sexes · Healthy volunteers welcome
Full eligibility criteria
Please note: This study takes place at American University and Georgetown University in Washington, DC. We do not have funds for travel and lodging available for this study, so participants should be local to the DC region. Inclusion Criteria: All participants * Aged 18-35 * Able to provide written, informed consent * NIH Toolbox age-adjusted Cognitive Function Composite standard score ≥ 85 * Native English speaker * Right-handed * Not pregnant * Able to attend all study sessions * Pass safety screening for MRI and neuromodulation (e.g. no metal in body, implanted devices, history of seizure, claustrophobia) Additional INCLUSION criteria for adults with autism Either * Prior research-reliable diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) Or * Meet DSM-5 criteria for ASD confirmed with ADOS-2 via research-reliable clinical assessment Exclusion Criteria: Neurotypical adults * Age \<18 or \>35 * NIH Toolbox age-adjusted Cognitive Function Composite standard score \< 85 * Contraindications for MRI or neuromodulation with tDCS (e.g. metal in body, pacemaker or other implanted device, history of seizure, claustrophobia) * Current or prior history of neurological or neurodevelopmental condition or brain injury * Psychotropic medication * Pregnancy Adults with autism * Age \<18 or \>35 * Participants with a legal authorized representative * NIH Toolbox age-adjusted Cognitive Function Composite standard score \< 85 * Contraindications for MRI or neuromodulation with tDCS (e.g. metal in body, pacemaker or other implanted device, history of seizure, claustrophobia) * Pregnancy
About the study
The goal of this study is to determine the impact of neuromodulation to the cerebellum on social and executive functions in neurotypical young adults and young adults with autism.
What is being tested
- Transcranial direct current stimulation (device)
Sponsor: American University · Participants: 80 · Started: Jan 1, 2022
Contact the study team
- Catherine Stoodley, D.Phil. · Phone: 202-476-4799
Official record on ClinicalTrials.gov — NCT05396352
Locations in the U.S.
| District of Columbia | American University, Washington D.C. |
Conditions
From ClinicalTrials.gov, data retrieved Oct 2, 2026. Each study sets its own eligibility; the study team decides who can join.