Mapping brain blood flow in infants using advanced imaging techniques

A fast CTOT for mapping whole brain hemodynamic activity in infants

NIH-funded research University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-10849656

This study is testing a new way to take pictures of blood flow in babies' brains to help doctors understand their brain activity better, especially for those who might have developmental delays.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10849656 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a new imaging technique called Cap-based Transcranial Optical Tomography (CTOT) to map brain blood flow in infants. Traditional methods like fMRI are challenging to use in young children, especially those at risk for developmental delays. The study aims to improve the speed and accuracy of brain imaging by using advanced detector technology, allowing for quicker assessments of brain activity. This could lead to better individualized care for infants with neurodevelopmental concerns.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are infants and young children, particularly those at risk for neurodevelopmental delays or brain injuries.

Not a fit: Patients who are older than 11 years or those without neurodevelopmental concerns may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide more accurate and timely assessments of brain health in infants, leading to improved management of neurodevelopmental issues.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques for brain mapping, but this specific approach is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Houston, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.