How the Brain's Hearing Center Develops in Early Life
NEURONAL CIRCUITS AND PLASTICITY OF NEONATAL AUDITORY CORTEX
This research explores how the hearing part of the brain develops in very young individuals and how early experiences might shape its connections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11051819 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We are looking into how the brain's auditory cortex, which is vital for speech and language, forms its connections during early development. Many conditions like Central Auditory Processing Disorders and Autism Spectrum Disorder are linked to unusual brain wiring in this area. We believe that experiences, even before birth, can significantly influence how these connections are made. Understanding these early stages could help us learn why some disorders occur and how we might one day help the brain develop more typical connections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant to individuals with conditions related to early auditory brain development, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder or Central Auditory Processing Disorders.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments or direct clinical interventions will not find direct benefit from this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could provide fundamental insights into the origins of conditions like Autism Spectrum Disorder and Central Auditory Processing Disorders, potentially leading to new strategies for early intervention.
How similar studies have performed: This research builds upon existing knowledge about critical periods in brain development and includes recent discoveries made by the researchers themselves regarding early sensory experiences.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kanold, Patrick O — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Kanold, Patrick O
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.