Exploring how noninvasive brain stimulation affects brain development in young children
Official title: Effects of Noninvasive Brain Stimulation on the Developing Brain
Funded at University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11044937 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a gentle brain stimulation technique called tDCS might help improve brain development in babies and young children during important growth stages, while also making sure it's safe for them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project start | December 15, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $253,756 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS136909-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11044937 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include infants and young children, particularly those at risk for neurological or cognitive impairments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients outside the age range of infancy to early childhood or those without neurological concerns may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of noninvasive brain stimulation, specifically transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), on the developing brain during critical growth periods. The study aims to understand how this technique can promote neuroplasticity and potentially improve neurological and cognitive outcomes in infants and young children. By examining the safety and efficacy of tDCS in this vulnerable population, the research seeks to address concerns about the potential toxic effects of brain stimulation during early brain development. Participants may undergo assessments to evaluate the impact of this stimulation on brain function and development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic approaches for improving brain health and cognitive function in young children.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results with tDCS in older populations, but this specific application in very young children is novel and largely untested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ikonomidou, Hrissanthi — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Ikonomidou, Hrissanthi
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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.