FMRI Tracking TaVNS in ASD

Description

The purpose of this study is to explore whether a non-invasive form of ear stimulation called transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) can manage symptoms in patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Additionally, this study also uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to capture images of participants' brains and apply an image processing method called INSCAPE to track brain state changes during taVNS treatment in ASD. Investigators will recruit up to 16 participants with ASD.

Conditions

Autistic Spectrum Disorders

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Study Overview

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Study Details

Study overview

The purpose of this study is to explore whether a non-invasive form of ear stimulation called transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) can manage symptoms in patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Additionally, this study also uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to capture images of participants' brains and apply an image processing method called INSCAPE to track brain state changes during taVNS treatment in ASD. Investigators will recruit up to 16 participants with ASD.

Developing Brain Imaging Biomarkers to Quantify the Effects of At-home TaVNS Treatment in ASD

FMRI Tracking TaVNS in ASD

Condition
Autistic Spectrum Disorders
Intervention / Treatment

-

Contacts and Locations

Charleston

30 Bee Street, Charleston, South Carolina, United States, 29425

Participation Criteria

Researchers look for people who fit a certain description, called eligibility criteria. Some examples of these criteria are a person's general health condition or prior treatments.

For general information about clinical research, read Learn About Studies.

Eligibility Criteria

  • * Ages 12-17
  • * English speaking
  • * Prior diagnosis of ASD using autism diagnostic observation schedule (ADOS)
  • * Have the capacity and ability to provide one's own assent, consent will be provided by legal guardian
  • * Facial/ear pain or recent ear trauma
  • * Metal implant devices in the head, heart, or neck
  • * History of brain surgery
  • * History of myocardial infarction or arrhythmia/bradycardia
  • * Acute exacerbation of a chronic respiratory disorder or acute COVID-related symptoms
  • * Active GI symptoms with a history of diabetes mellitus (DM) or gastroparesis secondary to DM
  • * Personal or family history of seizure or epilepsy or personal use of medications that substantially reduce seizure threshold (e.g., olanzapine, chlorpromazine, lithium)
  • * Personal history of head injury, concussion, or self-report of moderate to severe traumatic brain injury
  • * Personal history of frequent/severe headaches
  • * Personal history of psychosis or mania, or individuals who are actively manic or psychotic
  • * Individuals who are catatonic or otherwise unable to participate in the informed consent process
  • * Moderate to severe alcohol or substance use disorder
  • * Pregnancy

Ages Eligible for Study

12 Years to 17 Years

Sexes Eligible for Study

ALL

Accepts Healthy Volunteers

No

Collaborators and Investigators

Medical University of South Carolina,

Xiaolong Peng, PRINCIPAL_INVESTIGATOR, Medical University of South Carolina

Study Record Dates

2025-11-01