NCT04936009 · Yale University
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Study for Adults With Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
What this study is about
This is a randomly assigned interventional study designed to evaluate the effects of repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) on neural and behavioral facets of social cognition in adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
View original scientific description
This is a randomized interventional study designed to evaluate the effects of repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) on neural and behavioral facets of social cognition in adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
Subjects will receive both active and sham TMS in a randomized crossover assignment involving two study sessions
Primary outcome measures
right hemisphere N170 latency
Time frame: Measures will be recorded during the EEG/ET sessions of participant visits for an expected 1-2 hours
EEG brain response to faces as measured by the N170 component in milliseconds
proportion of visual attention to the eye region of the face
Time frame: Measures will be recorded during the EEG/ET sessions of participant visits for an expected 1-2 hours
visual attention to the eye region of the face as measured by eye tracking in seconds
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
- Individuals between the ages of 18 and 40 years old with typical development or with a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder.
- Individuals able to participate in an EEG and eye-tracking experiment.
Exclusion criteria
- Participants reporting significant head trauma or serious brain illness.
- Participants with major psychiatric illness that would preclude completion of study measures.
- Participants with a history of serious medical illness, stroke, seizures, epileptiform EEG abnormalities, or family history of seizures.
- Participants taking prescription medications that may affect cognitive processes under study.
- Participants who have taken alcohol or recreational drugs within the preceding 24 hours.
- Females of known/suspected pregnancy or who test positive on a pregnancy test.
- Participants with a history of metalworking or injury by shrapnel or metallic objects are also excluded.
- Participants with a history of prior TMS therapy or use of an investigational drug within 12 weeks of visit.
- Participants with an IQ (intelligence quotient) below 80.
Where
- New Haven, Connecticut
Collaborators
United States Department of Defense
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 Feb 9, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations