NCT06214065 · Yale University
Modulating Temporoparietal Junction Mentalizing-Related Activity in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Using Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
What this study is about
The goal of this observational study is to test the modulation effect of different transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) on the neural network supporting our ability to create mental representations of others (also known as mentalizing) in young adults with autism.
View original scientific description
The goal of this observational study is to test the modulation effect of different transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) on the neural network supporting our ability to create mental representations of others (also known as mentalizing) in young adults with autism. The main question it aims to answers is can stimulation of the right temporoparietal junction can change brain activity related to mentalizing during social interaction in the stimulation area and other brain areas connected to it. Researchers will compare results to a group of individuals without autism to see if the patterns of neural activity change are similar between the groups. Participants will undergo assessment of their clinical traits and social skills and baseline MRI scan. They will attend three additional visits that include TMS session and functional MRI scans before and right after TMS.
Interventions
DIAGNOSTIC_TEST
fMRI
fMRI will be performed pre- and post-rTMS
DEVICE
rTMS
TMS procedures are scheduled during study sessions 2-4 between the two MRI scans on those days. Because rTMS induces neural changes that last about 1 hour, rTMS will be applied immediately before the second MRI scan on each day. Prior to the TMS visits, target coordinates and orientation vectors will be generated from the MRI data and the e-field models and loaded into Localite along with the participant's reconstructed T1 image. During the visits, the participant's head will be co-registered to the T1 using fiducial points at the Nasion and Tragi. TMS pulses will be delivered, using the Localite software to target and track the optimal orientation calculated with e-field modeling.
Primary outcome measures
Mentalizing Task Related (MTR) neural activity in the mentalizing network
Time frame: during each fMRI, up to 5 hours
Change in MTR activity in six brain regions, from fMRI scans will be measured pre- to post-rTMS.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Estimated full-scale IQ\>80
- Right handed
- Fluent in English
- Individual can cooperate with all study's procedures
- No history of neurological disorder (e.g. epilepsy) or neurosurgery
- No major medical condition (e.g. cancer, heart failure)
- No history of significant head injury
- No primary relatives with history of any neurological disorder with a potentially hereditary basis, including epilepsy or MS
- No current use of medications with psychotropic (e.g., benzodiazepines) or anti- or pro-convulsants
- No current substance use (determined by urine screen and breathalyzer in all visits)
- Negative urine pregnancy (women) test at time of MRI scans
- No MR contra-indications (e.g. in-body metal implant, severe claustrophobia)
- No previous participation in our lab in a study including the Domino fMRI task
- For ASD: Stable medication treatment 4 weeks prior to study enrollment
- For Control Group: No current or history of psychiatric disorders, other than simple phobia, and/or primary relatives with ASD
Where
- Hartford, Connecticut
Collaborators
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Mar 27, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations