Abstract
BACKGROUND: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by impairments in social interaction, communication and the presence of repetitive behaviours. Recent advancements in brain-computer interface (BCI) technologies have demonstrated potential benefits in enhancing cognitive, social and communication skills in individuals with ASD. However, the effectiveness of BCI-based interventions in ASD rehabilitation remains inconsistent across studies. Therefore, this protocol outlines a systematic review and meta-analysis to synthesise the evidence on the effectiveness of BCI-based interventions for ASD rehabilitation. METHODS: We will conduct a comprehensive literature search across multiple databases, including MEDLINE Ovid, Embase Ovid, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Conference Proceedings Citation Index-Science (CPCI-S), Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED) and so on, to identify relevant studies published from inception to the present. The search will be supplemented by screening the reference lists of included studies and relevant systematic reviews. Two independent reviewers will screen the titles, abstracts and full texts of identified studies for eligibility based on predefined criteria. Data extraction will be performed using a standardised form, and the risk of bias (RoB) will be assessed using the Cochrane RoB tool. Heterogeneity will be evaluated using the I² statistic, and a random-effects or fixed-effects model will be selected for meta-analysis based on the degree of heterogeneity. Subgroup analyses will be conducted to explore potential sources of heterogeneity, including participant age, ASD severity, type of BCI intervention and duration of the intervention. The review will be conducted from January 2026 to April 2026. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: Ethical approval is not required for this study, as it does not involve the collection of primary data from individual patients. Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publication and conference presentations. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD420251010496.