Understanding Brain Changes from Adolescence to Adulthood
Refinement of Brain Mechanisms Underlying the Developmental Stabilization from Adolescent to Adult Neurocognitive Processing
This work explores how the brain develops from teenage years into adulthood, especially focusing on changes that help stabilize thinking and may prevent mood disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11166444 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our brains undergo significant changes during adolescence, a time when many mental health conditions can begin. This project uses advanced brain imaging, including high-field MRI, to look closely at how brain connections and chemistry change as young people mature. We are particularly interested in how these changes lead to more stable thinking skills in adulthood. By understanding these processes, we hope to learn more about why some individuals are more vulnerable to conditions like mood disorders during this critical developmental period.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is interested in individuals aged 12-20 years old and adults 21+ years old, particularly those with a first-degree relative who has experienced affective disorders.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment for existing conditions may not directly benefit from this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a better understanding of brain development and provide insights into preventing or treating mood disorders and other mental health conditions that emerge in adolescence.
How similar studies have performed: This is a renewal of a long-standing line of inquiry, building on previous findings that have already shown important specializations in cognitive brain systems during adolescence.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Luna, Beatriz — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Luna, Beatriz
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.