Investigating brain differences in children with developmental language disorder

Brain structural and functional abnormalities in the executive function network in children with developmental language disorder

NIH-funded research Father Flanagan's Boys' Home · NIH-11141501

This study is looking at how the brains of children with developmental language disorder (DLD) work differently and how those differences might affect their language skills and memory, with the hope of finding better ways to help them.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionFather Flanagan's Boys' Home NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boys Town, United States)
Project IDNIH-11141501 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the brain structure and function in children diagnosed with developmental language disorder (DLD). It aims to explore how these brain differences relate to challenges in language and cognitive abilities, particularly executive functions like working memory. By using advanced neuroimaging techniques, the study seeks to uncover the neural mechanisms behind DLD, which could lead to better-targeted interventions for affected individuals. The research will involve assessing brain activity and structure in children with DLD compared to typically developing peers.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation are children aged 0-20 years who have been diagnosed with developmental language disorder.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have developmental language disorder or related cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved interventions and support strategies for children with developmental language disorder.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been some neuroimaging studies on language disorders, this research aims to take a novel approach by examining broader brain networks involved in executive function, making it a potentially groundbreaking investigation.

Where this research is happening

Boys Town, 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 2026-06-13 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.