UCLA Health researchers have launched a five-year study to test whether wearable sensors can detect early motor signs of autism in infants.
The study targets infants with an older sibling diagnosed with autism
The research will enroll approximately 120 infants who have an increased likelihood of autism due to having an older sibling with autism spectrum disorder. These infants will wear sensor-equipped arm and leg warmers on their wrists and ankles to capture movement data from ages 3 to 12 months. Assessments will occur every three months in home or clinical settings.
Wearable sensors aim to capture subtle movement abnormalities missed in routine checkups
The sensors will monitor fine motor behaviors such as object grasping and limb coordination, which are early indicators of autism but often overlooked during standard pediatric evaluations. Current checkups typically assess only gross motor milestones like sitting or crawling, missing subtler movement issues that may signal developmental risk.
Early detection could enable earlier intervention and improved long-term outcomes
Researchers believe identifying motor abnormalities in infancy may allow for timely referral to intervention services, potentially improving functional abilities, independence, and overall wellbeing. Data from the wearable sensors will be paired with behavioral assessments and autism evaluations at 12 and 24 months to validate their predictive value.
What is the goal of using wearable technology in this study?
The goal is to develop robust, scalable clinical predictors of autism based on early motor differences that can be used in home and clinic settings to improve early identification.
Who is funding this research?
The study is supported by a $3.1 million grant from the National Institute of Neurologic Disorders and Stroke.