Investigating early development and cognitive risks in Down syndrome

Early Developmental Determinants and Pathways in Down syndrome

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA AT COLUMBIA · NIH-10914303

This study is looking at how things like balance and focus in babies with Down syndrome can affect their thinking and communication skills, so we can better understand how to support their development.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA AT COLUMBIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (COLUMBIA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10914303 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how early developmental factors, specifically postural control and attention, influence cognitive and communication outcomes in infants with Down syndrome. By examining the relationship between these developmental domains, the study aims to identify critical pathways that contribute to cognitive impairments. The research will involve measuring motor skills and attention in infants to determine how these factors affect their ability to communicate and learn. This innovative approach seeks to fill a significant gap in knowledge regarding the early developmental challenges faced by children with Down syndrome.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are infants diagnosed with Down syndrome, particularly those who may be experiencing delays in motor skills or attention.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have Down syndrome or those who are beyond the infant stage may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved early interventions that enhance cognitive and communication skills in children with Down syndrome.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been limited research specifically on the developmental pathways in Down syndrome, similar studies in other developmental disorders have shown promising results in understanding early cognitive risks.

Where this research is happening

COLUMBIA, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.