Non-invasive brain stimulation for core symptoms in children with autism spectrum disorder: a network meta-analysis

• Non-invasive brain stimulation significantly improves core symptoms in children with autism compared to conventional rehabilitation. • High-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex is most effective for improving Childhood Autism Rating Scale scores. • High-frequency rTMS over Broca's area is most effective for improving Autism Behavior Checklist scores. • The evidence is limited by methodological heterogeneity and small sample sizes, necessitating further high-quality trials.