How infant arousal affects development in Down syndrome

Infant arousal as a predictor of functional outcomes in Down syndrome (DS)

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL · NIH-11242663

This study looks at how babies with Down syndrome react to different things around them to see if those reactions can help us understand their learning and social skills better, so we can create special support to help them grow and thrive.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CHAPEL HILL, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11242663 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how different patterns of arousal in infants with Down syndrome (DS) can predict their cognitive, social, and sensory development. By observing infants' responses to various stimuli, the study aims to create a new biomarker that reflects their unique arousal profiles. This information could help in developing tailored early interventions to support their growth and learning. The research combines behavioral observations with neurobiological assessments to understand the connections between arousal and brain development.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are infants diagnosed with Down syndrome who are within the specified age range.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have Down syndrome or are outside the targeted age range may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to personalized early interventions that enhance developmental outcomes for infants with Down syndrome.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of linking arousal patterns to developmental outcomes is innovative, similar studies in neurodevelopmental disorders have shown promising results.

Where this research is happening

CHAPEL HILL, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: autism spectral disorder, autism spectrum disorder, Autistic Disorder, autistic spectrum disorder

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.