Exploring how language and reading skills are passed down through generations
Intergenerational Neuroimaging of Language and Reading Networks Using a Natural Cross-Fostering Design
This study is looking at how language and reading skills are passed down from parents to children, especially in families with kids conceived through in-vitro fertilization, to see how much of this is due to genetics versus the environment, and it’s especially important for understanding developmental dyslexia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Connecticut Storrs NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Storrs-Mansfield, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10612963 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how brain networks related to language and reading are transmitted across generations using a unique approach called natural cross-fostering. By studying families with children conceived through in-vitro fertilization, the research aims to differentiate between genetic and environmental influences on these brain networks. Participants will undergo cognitive assessments and brain imaging to understand the connections between parents and their children in terms of reading and language processing. This study is particularly relevant for understanding developmental dyslexia and its intergenerational effects.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation include families with children conceived through in-vitro fertilization, particularly those with a history of reading disorders.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have children or those whose children are not conceived through in-vitro fertilization may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and interventions for reading disorders in children.
How similar studies have performed: This research approach is novel, as it utilizes natural cross-fostering to explore intergenerational brain network transmission, which has not been extensively studied before.
Where this research is happening
Storrs-Mansfield, United States
- University of Connecticut Storrs — Storrs-Mansfield, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hoeft, Fumiko — University of Connecticut Storrs
- Study coordinator: Hoeft, Fumiko
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.