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  Patient Recruitment - Autism Spectrum Disorders
 

Research Studies        
1. Brain Imaging of Autism Biomarker   2. Brain Imaging Study of Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Autism Spectrum Disorders (Adult) Research Study

1. Brain Imaging of Autism Biomarker

This research study seeks to detect and measure an immune biomarker in the brain. Researchers will compare the brain scans of those with Autism to those without Autism.

The causes of autism are not known, but previous research has suggested an association between autism and immune changes in the brain. This study proposes to determine whether the emerging evidence and role of neuroimmune activation (as a biomarker in the brain) will indicate if there are greater immune changes in persons with autism.

This outpatient research study includes 2-4 outpatient visits of 2-6 hours each. There is an initial screening appointment that includes a physical examination, psychological examination, medical history, mood and behavior questions, and blood and urine tests. The research study includes a baseline MRI brain scan, a PET brain scan (with the administration of a drug that attaches to a brain protein), and a follow-up visit to provide a final blood sample. Eligibility criteria includes: adults ages 18-45; a diagnosis of Autism, Asperger Syndrome, or an Autism Spectrum Disorder; and good health (without a serious medical condition.)

There is no cost to participate. Compensation is provided for participation. Transportation may be provided. For information or to find out if you qualify, call: 301-435-8982 (TTY: 1-866-411-1010). Email: autismbrain@mail.nih.gov
 
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Autism Spectrum Disorders (Adult) Research Study

2. Brain Imaging Study of Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders

This research study investigates the effects of oxytocin and vasopressin on brain activity in adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).

This outpatient study will be conducted at the NIH Clinical Center in Bethesda, Maryland. There will be an initial screening appointment and 3 visits of about 2.5 hours each. During each visit, participants will receive a nasal spray containing either drug (vasopressin or oxytocin) or placebo (a solution containing no medication). After receiving the nasal spray, participants will be scanned while performing various computer-generated tasks.

Right-handed individuals between 18 and 40 years of age who have been diagnosed with Autism, Asperger Syndrome, or Pervasive Developmental Disorder- Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS) may be eligible to participate. There is no cost for participation. Compensation will be provided. To find out if you qualify or for more information, please call 301-451-7822 (TTY: 1-866-411-1010) or e-mail nimh-asd@mail.nih.gov . National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health & Human Services
 
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