Differences in Prosocial Behaviors and Related Brain Networks in Children With Autism and Typical Development

Launched by CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL OF FUDAN UNIVERSITY · Mar 26, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial aims to understand how the brains of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) work differently compared to children who develop typically. Researchers will use various advanced imaging techniques, such as MRI and EEG, to look at brain activity and networks while children respond to social situations. The main goals are to find out what differences exist in brain function and how each group responds to social cues.

To be part of this study, children aged 2 to 17 years may be eligible if they have a diagnosis of autism confirmed by a qualified professional. Healthy children without a family history of autism or other related conditions can also participate. During the study, participants will undergo assessments that measure their development and social skills, as well as brain imaging while they are asleep (without any medication). This research could help improve our understanding of autism and lead to better support for children with this condition.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Case group:
• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Children diagnosed with ASD according to a clinical judgement based on the criteria of ASD in DSM-5 and further confirmed with ADOS-2;
• • 2. Ages 2-17 years;
• • 3. Parents/caregivers understand the content of the study and agree to participate in.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Rett Syndrome, Fragile X Syndrome, Angelman Syndrome, Prader-Willi Syndrome, tuberous sclerosis, and other syndromes caused by known genetic defects or inherited metabolic diseases;
• • 2. Children with brain injuries, specific chronic or congenital diseases.
• • 3. The gestational age is less than 37 weeks, or the birth weight is lower than 2500g.
• • 4. Children cannot receive the head MRI examination.
• Control group:
• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Healthy children age between 2 to 17 years.
• • 2. Children without the family history of ASD or other neurodevelopmental/mental diseases.
• • 3. Parents/caregivers understand the content of the study and agree to participate in.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Children with brain injuries, specific chronic or congenital diseases.
• • 2. The gestational age is less than 37 weeks, or the birth weight is lower than 2500g.
• • 3. Children cannot receive the head MRI examination.