NCT06471504 · Indiana University
Use of Eye Tracking to Aid in Autism Risk Detection
(RCFET)
What this study is about
The study will use a non-invasive remote eye-tracking system (Eyelink Portable Duo) to acquire a short series of eye-tracking measures.
View original scientific description
The study will use a non-invasive remote eye-tracking system (Eyelink Portable Duo) to acquire a short series of eye-tracking measures.
Interventions
DIAGNOSTIC_TEST
Eyelink Portable Duo
Eye-tracking data will be collected using a commercially-available remote eye-tracking system (Eyelink Portable Duo). Eye movements and pupil diameter will be collected while participants view a series of developmentally appropriate pictures and movies. The eye-tracker consists of two cameras; one that monitors eye movements and a second scene camera that monitors head movements, which permits eye tracking to take place without any equipment touching the child. Children will be asked to sit in highchair or on their caregiver's lap and will face a computer monitor. After a sticker is applied to the child's forehead and brief eye-movement calibration completed, next visual stimuli (i.e., pictures and videos) will be presented on a laptop computer monitor that is placed at approximately 60-80cm from the child. The eye tracking portion of the visit will last approximately 15 minutes or until the child is no longer able to attend to pictures/videos.
Primary outcome measures
Agreement between eye-tracking biomarker score and diagnosis
Time frame: Day 1
The composite eye-tracking biomarker score, a consolidated measure based on eye-tracking indices that predict autism outcome, will be compared to the categorical autism diagnosis (autism presence/absence). Clinical diagnosis is obtained based upon a standard clinical evaluation conducted by an expert clinical psychologist. The evaluation will include 1) a semi-structured caregiver(s) clinical interview to gather information about developmental history and autism symptoms and 2) a battery of standardized child clinical observational measures. The evaluation will be conducted over a one-time 2-hour clinical autism evaluation. Eye-tracking will be recorded immediately following the clinical evaluation for a period of up to 15 minutes.
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
- Young children ages 12-48 months scheduled for health care visits at Riley Hospital for Children at Indiana University Health clinics (e.g., Pediatric Care Center clinics).
- Children must have English- or Spanish-speaking caregivers.
- Children must have a legal guardian that is able to provide consent.
Exclusion criteria
- Child is younger than 12 months or older than 48 months.
- Child's caregiver(s) is not English- or Spanish-speaking.
Where
- Indianapolis, Indiana
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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 Apr 22, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations