Autism Spectrum Research Study
Researchers at UMass Chan Medical School are conducting a study on how a common medication might support social connection in autistic teens.
STUDY ID 00000151
Fast Facts
Teen Diagnosed with Autism
13-17
Years Old
Compensation
Provided
Conducted in
MA
Study Background
Researchers at UMass Chan Medical School are conducting a study on gabapentin and brain chemistry for autistic teens ages 13–17.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects how the brain processes social information, and researchers are working to better understand the biological factors behind these differences. One key area of interest is GABA—a chemical messenger in the brain that helps regulate activity and may play a role in how autistic individuals experience social interactions.
This study investigates whether gabapentin, a medication commonly used for neurological conditions, can safely influence GABA levels and improve social cognition in teens with autism. By combining MRI scans, blood draws, and behavioral assessments over an 8-week period, researchers hope to uncover new insights that could lead to more personalized support strategies for autistic youth.
Study Background
Researchers at UMass Chan Medical School are conducting a study on gabapentin and brain chemistry for autistic teens ages 13–17.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects how the brain processes social information, and researchers are working to better understand the biological factors behind these differences. One key area of interest is GABA—a chemical messenger in the brain that helps regulate activity and may play a role in how autistic individuals experience social interactions.
This study investigates whether gabapentin, a medication commonly used for neurological conditions, can safely influence GABA levels and improve social cognition in teens with autism. By combining MRI scans, blood draws, and behavioral assessments over an 8-week period, researchers hope to uncover new insights that could lead to more personalized support strategies for autistic youth.
Additional Information
Researchers want to understand how a medication called gabapentin affects brain chemistry in autistic teens. By studying changes in a brain chemical called GABA, they hope to learn whether gabapentin can help improve how teens process social information and connect with others.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
Ages 13–17 years old
Diagnosed with autism
Able to undergo an MRI
No non-removable metal in or on the body
No extreme claustrophobia
Born at term (after 36 weeks of gestation)
No serious or unstable medical illness
Open to male and female participants
Exclusion Criteria:
Braces or other non-removable metal that interferes with MRI
Extreme claustrophobia or inability to tolerate MRI
Premature birth (before 36 weeks gestation)
Unstable or serious medical conditions
Here’s what to expect, step by step:
Screening Visit –Meet with the study team to confirm eligibility and complete initial assessments, including one blood draw. Can be done in 1 or 2 visits.
Baseline MRI Scan –Complete two MRI brain scans and begin the medication.
Start Gabapentin – Take gabapentin three times a day for 8 weeks.
Weekly Check-ins – Join short phone or video check-ins once a week.
Follow-up Visits – Attend 2 in-person visits: including one additional blood draw and one additional MRI scan.
Final Assessments – Complete questionnaires and social cognition tasks to help researchers understand the effects.
Yes! Participants may receive up to $330 in compensation, including:
$80 for screening + $50 for each MRI and follow-up visit loaded onto a digital Visa gift card
Parking vouchers for 4–5 in-person visits
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.