Brain and Behavioral Changes Over Time in Young Children with Autism

Clinical Trial Details

This study has the goal of furthering our understanding of the longitudinal course of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Specifically, we propose a longitudinal study of young children with ASD (2-3 years) to identify the neurobiological underpinnings of early developmental changes in restricted repetitive behavior/interests (RRB), one of the most clinically impairing aspects of ASD - and their predictive contribution to later function.

Key Eligibility:

Inclusion Criteria:

20-34 months of age at the first visit
Child must be walking independently
Parent/legal guardian must be fluent in English
Family must have concerns about autism or social development

Exclusion Criteria:

Medical illness requiring chronic treatment
Intrathecal chemotherapy or focal cranial irradiation
History of leukomalacia or static encephalopathy intracerebral hemorrhage grade 2
Other specific or focal neurological or metabolic disorder including epilepsy, traumatic brain injury
Severe hearing and/or visual impairment
Cerebral palsy; Diagnosis or physical signs strongly suggestive of a genetic condition or syndrome known to be associated with ASD (e.g., fragile X syndrome, Tuberous Sclerosis, and Rett’s Syndrome). Recent technological advances have increasingly identified non syndromic de novo mutations associated with ASD. If reported by the family, these genetic mutations will not be exclusionary
Premature birth (<36 weeks estimated gestational age or birth weight <2000g)
Any contraindication for MRI scanning
Currently taking any psychotropic medications at T1
Current significant history of severe insomnia

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