Investigating brain chemistry changes in young children using advanced imaging techniques

Edited Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy of the Pediatric Brain

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11116882

This study is looking at how certain chemicals in the brains of young children change as they grow, using a special scan that doesn't hurt, to help us understand what healthy brain development looks like and how it might be affected in some kids.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-11116882 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the neurochemical changes that occur in the brains of young children, which are crucial for their development. By using a technique called magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), the study aims to non-invasively measure important brain metabolites that influence brain function. The project will develop new tools to improve the accuracy of these measurements, particularly in children who may have difficulty remaining still during scans. The findings could provide insights into healthy brain development and potential disruptions in neurodevelopment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children aged 0-11 years who are undergoing evaluation for neurodevelopmental conditions.

Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 0-11 years or those without neurodevelopmental concerns may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnostic tools for assessing brain health in children and understanding developmental disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using magnetic resonance spectroscopy for studying brain chemistry, but this specific application in pediatrics is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.