Investigating language impairment in children with low-verbal autism
Multimodal dMRI, MRS and MEG studies of language impairment in low-verbal ASD
This study is looking at how certain brain scans can help us understand why some children with low-verbal autism have trouble with language, and it aims to find out if measuring their brain activity and a specific brain chemical can help create better, personalized therapies for them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Hosp of Philadelphia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10914003 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores how brain imaging techniques, including magnetoencephalography (MEG) and diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (dMRI), can help understand language processing delays in children with low-verbal autism spectrum disorder (ASD). By measuring the brain's response to auditory stimuli, the study aims to identify specific sub-groups of children with ASD who exhibit unique patterns in their brain activity. The research also looks at the levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in these children, which may provide insights into their language impairments and guide future interventions. The findings could lead to more tailored therapies based on individual biological markers.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years diagnosed with low-verbal autism spectrum disorder.
Not a fit: Patients who are not diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or who are verbal may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for children with low-verbal autism, enhancing their communication skills.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using similar multimodal imaging techniques to understand brain function in autism, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- Children's Hosp of Philadelphia — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Roberts, Timothy P — Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
- Study coordinator: Roberts, Timothy P
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.