Identifying brain markers for autism behaviors in toddlers
Official title: Brain-based biomarkers of restricted and repetitive behaviors in toddlers at risk for autism
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10922726 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the brain activity of toddlers can help spot early signs of autism before they turn four, so we can find ways to support kids who might need it as early as possible.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | August 10, 2023 |
| Project end | August 9, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $40,967 |
| NIH project number | 5F31MH134579-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10922726 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are toddlers aged 12 to 36 months who are either at risk for autism or are typically developing.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are older than 36 months or do not exhibit any risk factors for autism may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how brain activity in toddlers can help identify those at risk for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) before they reach the typical diagnosis age of four. By using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to find early neural markers that correlate with restricted and repetitive behaviors, which are key symptoms of ASD. The research will analyze data from toddlers aged 12 to 36 months, comparing those at risk for developmental disabilities with typically developing peers. This approach seeks to enhance early diagnosis and intervention strategies for children with ASD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate diagnoses of autism, allowing for timely interventions that improve developmental outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in identifying brain markers for autism in older children, but this approach in toddlers is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kupis, Lauren — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Kupis, Lauren
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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.