Identification of Motor Dysfunction in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Clinical Predictors and Brain Connectivity using Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging

• Grant number: 25/03181-3
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: October 01, 2025
• End date: September 30, 2028
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Medicine
• Agreement: Instituto Jô Clemente
• Principal Investigator: Ana Paula Andrade Hamad
• Grantee: Ana Paula Andrade Hamad
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto (FMRP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Ribeirão Preto , SP, Brazil
• City of the host institution: Ribeirão Preto
• Associated researchers: Antonio Carlos dos Santos ; Carlos Ernesto Garrido Salmon ; Guillermo Andrey Ariza Traslaviña ; Héctor Julián Tejada Herrera

Abstract

This study aims to characterize motor skills and brain connectivity in children with ASD using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). The research addresses a critical need to understand the comorbidities in motor performance often observed in ASD, which can compromise short- and long-term cognitive and social gains. The results may contribute to the personalization of rehabilitation strategies. Children aged 6 to 11 years, treated at HC-FMRP-USP with a confirmed diagnosis of ASD, will be evaluated. Motor skills will be analyzed using a standardized instrument, and subsequently, fMRI images will be acquired to assess functional brain connectivity. Multivariate statistical analyses will be applied to identify risk factors associated with motor difficulties. The research also explores the feasibility of using innovative technologies, such as computational motion analysis through mobile devices, to complement motor assessment in clinical contexts. (AU)