Long-term study of brain development and health in children and adolescents
18/21 ABCD-USA CONSORTIUM: RESEARCH PROJECT SITE AT THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA
This study is looking at how different experiences, like using substances or dealing with mental health issues, affect the brain development of kids aged 9-10 over several years, and it’s designed for children and their families who want to help us learn more about growing up healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11078259 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The ABCD-USA Consortium at the University of Florida investigates how brain development and health are influenced by various factors in children and adolescents. This research involves tracking a diverse group of participants aged 9-10 years over several years, using advanced techniques like brain imaging and neuropsychological testing. Participants undergo comprehensive assessments every two years, along with annual interviews and mobile app check-ins to monitor their development and life events. The goal is to understand the impact of experiences such as substance use, mental health, and environmental factors on brain growth and behavior.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation are children aged 9-10 years and their families who are willing to engage in long-term assessments.
Not a fit: Patients who are outside the age range of 9-10 years or those who do not have the capacity to participate in long-term studies may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding of adolescent brain development, potentially informing interventions for mental health and substance use issues.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research in similar areas has shown success in understanding brain development and its implications for health, making this a continuation of established research.
Where this research is happening
Gainesville, United States
- University of Florida — Gainesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nixon, Sara Jo — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Nixon, Sara Jo
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.