Investigating infant cries and behaviors as early signs of autism risk
Neonatal Cry Acoustics and Neurobehavioral Characteristics as Early Markers of Risk for Autism Spectrum Disorder
This study is looking at how the sounds babies make when they cry and their early behaviors might help us spot signs of autism before they turn two, so we can find better ways to check for autism early on.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Missouri-Columbia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10671546 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores how the sounds infants make when they cry and their early behaviors may indicate a risk for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). By using advanced technology to analyze the acoustic features of infant cries, researchers aim to identify patterns that could signal autism risk before the age of two. The study also employs a validated neurobehavioral exam to assess infants' behaviors during the newborn period. The goal is to develop reliable early screening methods for autism, which currently do not exist.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are newborns and infants up to two years old who are at risk for autism spectrum disorder.
Not a fit: Patients who are older than two years or those who do not exhibit any signs of autism risk may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to early identification and intervention for infants at risk for autism, potentially improving long-term outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary findings from similar research have shown promise in identifying early markers for autism through cry and neurobehavioral analysis.
Where this research is happening
Columbia, United States
- University of Missouri-Columbia — Columbia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sheinkopf, Stephen J — University of Missouri-Columbia
- Study coordinator: Sheinkopf, Stephen J
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.