Understanding brain changes in preschoolers with autism
Official title: Neural signatures of outcome in preschoolers with autism
Funded at Child Mind Institute, INC. · NIH-10442708 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how the brains of preschoolers with autism develop while they sleep and how these changes might relate to their behaviors as they grow, helping us find early signs that could guide better support and treatment for them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Child Mind Institute, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | August 21, 2018 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $672,864 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH115363-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10442708 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are preschool-aged children (2-3 years) diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are older than 3 years or do not have a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how brain development in preschoolers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) relates to their behavior over time. By using advanced MRI techniques during natural sleep, the study aims to identify early brain patterns that may predict future functioning in children with ASD. The focus is on understanding changes in specific brain circuits and how these changes correlate with repetitive behaviors that are common in autism. This longitudinal approach will help in identifying early markers that can inform treatment and support strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate prognostic markers for children with autism, improving individualized treatment plans.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using neuroimaging techniques to understand brain-behavior relationships in autism, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Child Mind Institute, INC.
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Di Martino, Adriana — Child Mind Institute, INC.
- Study coordinator: Di Martino, Adriana
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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.