Research Studies

REACH Project
The REACH Project, a study funded by the National Institute of Mental Health, investigates the genetic basis of autism by examining how certain genetic variations may influence brain development and contribute to the development of an autism spectrum disorder. We are currently recruiting children between 3-17 years of age who have either received an autism diagnosis or have a suspected autism spectrum disorder, provided that both parents are also available to participate. Currently, we have recruited nearly 200 families through several departments within Rady Children’s, including Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Developmental Behavioral Pediatrics, Neurology, Psychiatry and the Autism Discovery Institute! If interested, please contact Tim Pang at 858-576-1700, ext. 3638 or email reachproject@ucsd.edu.
 
Brain Imaging of Neural Networks in Autism Spectrum Disorders
This project, hosted by SDSU, uses several state of the art neuroimaging techniques (e.g.  magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and magnetoencephalography (MEG), all safe and widely used in clinical practice) to examine differences in brain connectivity and organization in children who have an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis and in typically developing peers. We are currently recruiting children with high functioning autism between the ages of 5 and 18 who will tolerate being in an MRI scanner. To learn more about the study, please contact Morgan at 619-594-0176 or bdil@mail.sdsu.edu.
 

Research Study for Children with Eczema

The Pediatric and Adolescent Dermatology Office at Rady Children’s is currently conducting a study for children with eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis. Qualified participants will be 3 months through 5 years of age, have moderate amount of itchy red rash, and be available for six visits over a two-month period. There is no charge for visits with the dermatology staff, and qualified participants will receive a stipend for participation. If you would like to find out more about this study please call 858-576-1700, ext. 4295 or afunk@rchsd.org.