ABCD at Washington University: following children's brain and health from late childhood into adulthood
21/21 ABCD-USA CONSORTIUM: RESEARCH PROJECT SITE AT WUSTL
This project follows thousands of children who were age 9–10 to track brain development, mental and physical health, and life experiences as they grow into adulthood.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11301838 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
I would join a large, ongoing group of children first enrolled around age 9–10 and have regular check-ins as I move through adolescence and young adulthood. At Washington University I would come for detailed visits that include brain MRI scans, thinking and behavior tests, health measures, and giving small biosamples. Between major visits the study uses annual in-person interviews and shorter phone or app check-ins so changes are tracked over time with less burden. The site is one of 21 across the U.S. working together to build a long-term picture of youth development.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal participants are families with a child who was about 9–10 years old at enrollment (now followed into adolescence and early adulthood) who can attend in-person MRI and testing visits and complete yearly phone/app check-ins.
Not a fit: People seeking immediate clinical treatment for a medical or psychiatric condition should not expect direct care from participation, and those unable to attend in-person visits may not benefit from joining.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the project could help spot early signs of mental health or substance-use risk and guide better prevention and personalized care for young people.
How similar studies have performed: Large longitudinal cohorts like ABCD have already yielded important findings about brain and behavioral development, and this consortium continues that well-established approach.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Madden, Pamela Ann — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Madden, Pamela Ann
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.