Investigating brain imaging and cognitive function in children with kidney disease

Brain anatomical imaging and neurocognition in pediatric kidney disease (BRAIN KID)

NIH-funded research University of Iowa · NIH-11037882

This study is looking at how mild to moderate kidney disease in kids might change their brain structure and thinking skills, using special MRI scans to compare their brains with those of healthy children, all to better understand how kidney health can affect brain development.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Iowa NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Iowa City, United States)
Project IDNIH-11037882 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how pediatric chronic kidney disease (pCKD) affects brain structure and cognitive abilities in children. By using advanced MRI techniques, the study aims to identify differences in brain anatomy and function in children with mild to moderate kidney disease compared to healthy peers. The research will also assess cognitive and behavioral performance to explore the relationship between kidney health and brain development. This comprehensive approach seeks to fill the knowledge gap regarding the impact of kidney disease on the developing brain.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who have been diagnosed with mild to moderate chronic kidney disease.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have chronic kidney disease or are over the age of 11 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and interventions for cognitive challenges faced by children with kidney disease.

How similar studies have performed: This research is pioneering in its approach, as it is the first to quantitatively evaluate brain differences in young children with early-stage pCKD using MRI.

Where this research is happening

Iowa City, 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 2026-06-09 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.