Suma Jacob Lab

Autism Research Program

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficits in social communication and the presence of repetitive behaviors and restricted interests. The prevalence of ASD has been rising steadily over the past 10 years, with recent estimates that 1/68 children have ASD (CDC, 2014).

Focus

Dr. Suma Jacob’s research lab conducts studies that examine effects of novel interventions on social functioning and repetitive behaviors for both children and adults.

There are currently no approved medications specific for social behaviors in autism. Recently, several investigational drugs are being studied because of their potential to improve social functioning and restrictive, repetitive behaviors in individuals with autism.

Please visit our specific studies below to learn more. Information on studies not currently enrolling new subjects can still be accessed on the navigation bar to the left.

Autism Projects

• FIND: Focus in NeuroDevelopment Network – Children and Adults
• SPARK: Simons Foundation Powering Autism Research for Knowledge
• The aViation Study - Ages 5-17
• Intranasal Oxytocin for the Treatment of Children and Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) – Ages 10-17 - Enrollment Full
• Single Dose Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OT) Versus Placebo in Autism: Examining the Cognitive Effects – Ages 5-40 - Enrollment Full
• FaceStation – Ages 12-17 males - Enrollment Full
• VANILLA study – Ages 18-45 males - Enrollment Full
• Imaging Study - Ages 8-17 - Enrollment Full