Investigating memory decline in aging adults with autism
Official title: The Aging Autistic Brain: Multi-modal imaging to predict accelerated memory decline
Funded at Arizona State University-Tempe Campus · NIH-10996183 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how getting older affects memory in adults with autism, using brain scans to see how their memory and brain activity change over time compared to those without autism, so we can better understand the memory challenges they might face as they age.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Arizona State University-Tempe Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tempe, United States) |
| Project start | December 7, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $612,271 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH132746-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10996183 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include middle-aged and older adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or are younger than middle age may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how aging affects memory in adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It utilizes advanced imaging techniques, including functional MRI and diffusion tensor imaging, to observe changes in brain structure and function over time. By comparing memory performance and brain activity in middle-aged and older adults with ASD to those without, the study aims to identify early indicators of accelerated memory decline. Participants will undergo various memory tasks while their brain activity is monitored, providing insights into the unique challenges faced by this population as they age.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved early detection and intervention strategies for memory decline in aging adults with autism.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using advanced imaging techniques to study neurodegeneration, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Arizona State University-Tempe Campus
Tempe, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Braden, Brittany Blair — Arizona State University-Tempe Campus
- Study coordinator: Braden, Brittany Blair
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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.