A network meta-analysis of non-invasive brain stimulation interventions for autism spectrum disorder: Evidence from randomized controlled trials.
Journal
Neuroscience and biobehavioral reviews
Journal Volume
164
ISSN
1873-7528
Date Issued
2024-09
Author(s)
Chen, Yang-Chieh Brian
Lin, Hsiang-Yuan
Wang, Liang-Jen
Hung, Kuo-Chuan
Brunoni, Andre R
Chou, Po-Han
Tseng, Ping-Tao
Liang, Chih-Sung
Lin, Pao-Yen
Carvalho, Andre F
Hsu, Chih-Wei
Ni, Hsing-Chang
Abstract
The efficacy and acceptability of various non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) interventions for autism spectrum disorder remain unclear. We carried out a systematic review for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) regarding NIBS for reducing autistic symptoms (INPLASY202370003). Sixteen articles (N = 709) met the inclusion criteria for network meta-analysis. Effect sizes were reported as standardized mean differences (SMDs) or odds ratios with 95 % confidence intervals (CIs). Fourteen active NIBS interventions, including transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, and transcranial pulse stimulation were analyzed. Only anodal tDCS over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex paired with cathodal tDCS over an extracephalic location (atDCS_F3 + ctDCS_E) significantly improved autistic symptoms compared to sham controls (SMD = - 1.40, 95 %CIs = - 2.67 to - 0.14). None of the NIBS interventions markedly improved social-communication symptoms or restricted/repetitive behaviors in autistic participants. Moreover, no active NIBS interventions exhibited significant dropout rate differences compared to sham controls, and no serious adverse events were reported for any intervention.
Subjects
Autism
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation
Theta burst stimulation
Transcranial electrical stimulation
SDGs
Publisher
Elsevier B.V.
Type
journal article