Featured Studies
Featured studies include only those currently recruiting participants. They are listed according to the date they were added to the ClinicalTrials.gov registry, with the most recent studies appearing first.
- Studying Childhood-onset Behavioral, Psychiatric, and Developmental Disorders.
Evaluation study. Background: - Many psychiatric, behavioral, and developmental disorders are genetic. Location in Bethesda, MD.
- Near Infrared Spectroscopy in Children With Autism and ADHD.
Evaluation study. Background: - Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is a functional imaging technique that can be uses light to study brain function while allowing for movement. Ages 4-8. Location in Bethesda, MD.
- Study of Toddlers With Language Delay.
Evaluation study. The purpose of this study is to learn more about risk factors for autism by studying the behavior and brain functioning of toddlers with early communication delays and typically developing toddlers. Ages 10 months-20 months. Location in Bethesda, MD.
- A Study of the Association Between Autism and Immune Changes in the Brain.
Evaluation study. Background: - People with autism and autism spectrum disorders have problems with communication, behavior, and socializing, and many also have intellectual and developmental disabilities. Ages 18-45. Location in Bethesda, MD.
- Cognitive Neuroscience of Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Evaluation study. Background: - Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a group of developmental disorders that affect communication, social interaction, and behavior. Ages 5-89. Location in Bethesda, MD.
- Comparing Parent-Implemented Interventions for Toddlers With Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Interventional study. This study will compare the effectiveness of two parent-based programs for helping young children at risk of autism. Ages 16 months-20 months. Locations in Tallahassee, FL; Ann Arbor, MI.
- Clinical and Immunological Investigations of Subtypes of Autism.
Evaluation study. The purpose of this study is to learn more about autism and its subtypes. Ages 1 year-6. Location in Bethesda, MD.
- Screening for Studies on Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Evaluation study. This study will screen children and adolescents (and their parents) to determine the child's eligibility for participation in NIMH research studies on autism spectrum disorders, such as autism and Rett's Disorder. Ages up to 20. Location in Bethesda, MD.
- Long-Term Olanzapine Treatment in Children With Autism.
Interventional study. This study will determine the short- and long-term safety and effectiveness of the drug olanzapine (Zyprexa®) for reducing symptoms of autism in children. Ages 3-12. Location in Philadelphia, PA.
- Methylphenidate for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Autism in Children.
Interventional study. This study will first examine the cognitive and behavioral differences in children who have an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and who do and do not have additional symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Ages 7-12. Location in Houston, TX.
- Evaluating the Effectiveness of Aripiprazole and D-Cycloserine to Treat Symptoms Associated With Autism.
Interventional study. This study will determine the effectiveness of aripiprazole and D-Cycloserine in treating symptoms associated with autism in children. Ages 5-17. Location in Indianapolis, IN.
Related Information
- Learn more about Autism Spectrum Disorders (Pervasive Developmental Disorders)
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), also known as Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDDs), cause severe and pervasive impairment in thinking, feeling, language, and the ability to relate to others. These disorders are usually first diagnosed in early childhood and range from a severe form, called autistic disorder, through pervasive development disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS), to a much milder form, Asperger syndrome. They also include two rare disorders, Rett syndrome and childhood disintegrative disorder.
Clinical Research at NIMH
- For opportunities to participate in NIMH research on the NIH campus, visit the patient recruitment Website. Travel and lodging assistance available.




