Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation of the Temporoparietal Junction in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Results of a Phase-IIa Randomized, Double-Blind, Sham-Controlled Feasibility Study.

ABSTRACT: Activation of the temporoparietal junction (TPJ) is reduced in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) during social cognitive tasks. Therefore, anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) of the TPJ may enhance social cognitive abilities in autistic individuals. In a multicenter, randomized, sham-controlled, double-blind parallel-group Phase-IIa trial, we investigated feasibility, safety, and effect sizes of 10 sessions of anodal tDCS of the bilateral TPJ at 2 mA as an add-on to computer-based social cognitive training in 10- to 17-year-old youth with autism. Feasibility of recruitment was low, with only 11% of screened individuals being randomized to tDCS (N = 12) or sham (N = 12). In contrast, retention in the study, data collection, intervention adherence, and technical feasibility we

SUBMITTER: Luckhardt C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12442529 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature