rTMS for Executive Function Deficits in Autism Spectrum Disorder

This is an interventional treatment trial for Autism Spectrum Disorder focused on measuring Autism Spectrum Disorder, Executive Function, rTMS (Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation), MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), Healthy Subjects Read More

Inclusion Criteria Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD):

• Are fluent in the English language
• Have a diagnosis of high functioning ASD (HF-ASD) (i.e., are verbal with an Intelligence Quotient (IQ) ≥ 70)
• Are competent to consent based on the subjects' ability to provide a spontaneous narrative description of the key elements of the study
• Are clinically stable as determined by their treating physician, with no medication changes over the past 4 weeks

Exclusion Criteria (ASD):

• Have a history of substance abuse or dependence in the last 6 months or have a positive urine toxicology screen
• Have a concomitant major medical or neurologic illness
• Have had a seizure in the past, or have a first-degree relative with epilepsy
• Have an abnormal clinical EEG
• Are pregnant or likely to get pregnant during the next 4 weeks
• Are clinically unstable
• Are on benzodiazepines or anticonvulsant medication
• Have a history of rTMS treatment.

Inclusion Criteria (Healthy Controls):

• Are fluent in the English language
• Competent to consent

Exclusion Criteria (Healthy Controls):

• Have a history of substance abuse or dependence in the last 6 months or have a positive urine toxicology screen
• Have a major medical or neurologic illness
• Have a diagnosed learning disorder or impaired academic or adaptive functioning on history
• Are pregnant
• Have an IQ < 80
• Have a psychiatric diagnosis on diagnostic interview assessments.