White matter alterations linked to social cognitive improvements following theta burst stimulation of the right inferior frontal gyrus in autism.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

Intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) over the right inferior frontal gyrus (RIFG) has been shown to improve social cognitive function in autistic individuals. However, whether this intervention modulates underlying brain structure remains unknown. This study aimed to investigate the impact of iTBS over the RIFG on white matter macro- and micro-structure in intellectually able autistic children and young adults.

Materials and methods

In this 8-week double-blind, parallel, sham-controlled trial, autistic participants (aged 8-30 years) were randomized to receive twice-weekly neuro-navigated iTBS targeting the RIFG or sham stimulation using a sham coil applied over the same target. The social cognitive performance was measured with the Frith-Happé Animations Te

SUBMITTER: Yeh CH 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12828818 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature