Current Studies

Neurocognitive Basis of Language Processing in Autism A K23 was awarded to Dr. Diane Williams, PhD, Duquesne University

This Mentored Patient-Oriented Research Career Award (K23) will provide specialized training in the skills necessary to conduct research on the neurobiologic basis of language processing in autism. Dr. Williams long term objectives are: 1) to engage in research that will elucidate the neurobiologic and neurodevelopmental mechanisms underlying language processing problems in developmental disabilities, particularly autism; 2) to develop an innovative model of language processing in autism based on neurophysiological and behavioral data; and, 3) to develop and evaluate therapeutic intervention for individuals with autism based on the model of language processing.

The specific aims are: 1) to investigate the comprehension of complex linguistic concepts by high-functioning individuals with autism; 2) to characterize the functional and anatomical brain systems underlying processing of complex linguistic concepts in high-functioning individuals with autism; and, 3) to characterize the functional and anatomical brain systems underlying processing of mentalizing in this population.

Dr. Williams first studies will examine the comprehension of ironic and metaphoric language and theory of mind in 30 older adolescents and adults with high-functioning autism as compared to 30 matched typical controls. The data from the behavioral studies will be integrated with data from planned fMRI studies conducted under the direction of Dr. Just. The hope is that clearer understanding of the underlying neural mechanisms will guide the development of more efficient and effective therapeutic intervention, affecting positive change in the linguistic processing and adaptive functioning of individuals with autism. Dr. Williams holds a doctorate in speech-language pathology and has extensive clinical experience with individuals with autism and two years of post-doctoral research training. Dr. Marcel Just and Dr. Nancy Minshew will serve as mentors. Training will include coursework and directed readings in language in autism, right hemispheric language functions, neuroimaging, and modeling of cognitive processes with rotations at neuroimaging laboratories at Carnegie Mellon University, the University of Pittsburgh, University of California, Los Angeles, and Boston University.