Improving imaging techniques for fetal brain development
Enhanced Imaging of the Fetal Brain Microstructure
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE · NIH-11137311
This study is working on new ways to take pictures of a baby's brain while it's still in the womb, so doctors can better understand how certain health issues, like heart problems, might affect brain development and help improve care for babies who need it.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (IRVINE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11137311 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing imaging methods to better visualize the microstructure of the fetal brain during critical development stages. By developing advanced diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) technologies, the project aims to overcome current limitations that hinder accurate assessments of brain abnormalities caused by conditions like congenital heart disease. The goal is to improve understanding of how adverse events in utero affect neuronal migration and brain connectivity, which could lead to better outcomes for affected infants. Patients may benefit from improved diagnostic capabilities and targeted interventions based on these findings.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit include pregnant individuals at risk of having fetuses with congenital heart disease or other conditions affecting brain development.
Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or whose fetuses do not have any identified risk factors for brain abnormalities may not receive benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate detection of brain abnormalities in fetuses, allowing for timely interventions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques for assessing brain abnormalities, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
IRVINE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE — IRVINE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: GHOLIPOUR-BABOLI, ALI — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE
- Study coordinator: GHOLIPOUR-BABOLI, ALI
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.