Exploring the Neural Mechanisms of Acupuncture Stimulation in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Protocol for a Randomized, Sham-Controlled, Multimodal Neuroimaging Trial

Background

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by restricted and repetitive behaviors and disturbances in social communication and interaction. Currently, there is no fundamental treatment for ASD, with only a few medications available for use on a limited basis to manage concomitant neuropsychiatric symptoms. The primary therapeutic goal of such treatments is to alleviate symptoms while maximizing the functional independence and quality of life of affected individuals. Many complementary and alternative medicine therapies have been reported to have effects on ASD symptoms; however, evidence is insufficient to confirm their clinical effectiveness. Acupuncture has traditionally been used as a complementary intervention to manage various neurological and neuropsychiatric diseases, including ASD, in East Asia. However, how acupuncture stimulation modulates neural activity at the macroscale level in individuals with ASD remains largely unknown.