Identifying early brain changes in infants at risk for autism
Toward Scalable Biomarker-Based Prediction of ASD in High-Risk Infants
This study is looking at how brain scans can help find early signs of autism in babies who have older siblings with autism, so that we can spot any changes before they show typical signs, and it invites parents of these babies to help improve early detection and support.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Hospital of Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10691868 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how brain imaging can help identify early signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in infants who are at higher risk, particularly those with older siblings diagnosed with ASD. By using advanced MRI techniques, the study aims to detect brain function and structural changes in these infants during their first year of life, before behavioral symptoms appear. The goal is to improve early screening methods and facilitate timely interventions that could positively impact development. Parents of high-risk infants may be involved in this research to help advance understanding and treatment of ASD.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation are infants who have older siblings diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
Not a fit: Infants without a family history of autism or those who do not meet the high-risk criteria may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate identification of autism in infants, allowing for timely interventions that may improve developmental outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies using MRI to assess brain development in high-risk infants have shown promising results in predicting ASD, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- Children's Hospital of Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jeste, Shafali Spurling — Children's Hospital of Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Jeste, Shafali Spurling
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.