Cerebellum and Autism: Regional Specialization for Social and Executive Functions
American University
Summary
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.
Description
Autism spectrum disorder is a prevalent neurodevelopmental condition characterized by deficits in social communication and the presence of repetitive and inflexible behaviors. There are currently few biologically-targeted treatment options for autism, in part because the underlying neurobiology is not well understood. One region of the brain that is consistently implicated in autism is the cerebellum. Specifically, two cerebellar subregions show structural and functional differences in autism: right cerebellar lobule VII (RVII) and the posterior cerebellar vermis. Based on the different anatom…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 18–35 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Yes
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 seizur…
Interventions
- DeviceTranscranial direct current stimulation
TDCS involves applying small (1-2 mA) electric currents to the scalp in order to transiently modify local neuronal electrical potentials in the brain.
Location
- American UniversityWashington D.C., District of Columbia