Understanding brain changes linked to anxiety risk in infants

Identifying neural markers of risk for anxiety in infancy

NIH-funded research New York University School of Medicine · NIH-11059217

This study looks at how the way babies' brains connect with each other relates to their ability to hold back in new situations, which can sometimes lead to anxiety later on, and it aims to find patterns that could help us support kids who might be at risk for anxiety as they grow up.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNew York University School of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11059217 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how certain brain networks in infants relate to behavioral inhibition, a temperament that can indicate a risk for developing anxiety. By studying changes in brain connectivity over time, the project aims to uncover the neurodevelopmental mechanisms that connect behavioral inhibition and anxiety. The research will involve longitudinal assessments of brain activity and behavioral measures to identify patterns that could inform early interventions for anxiety. The ultimate goal is to enhance understanding of how brain development influences anxiety risk in young children.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are infants exhibiting signs of behavioral inhibition or anxiety-related behaviors.

Not a fit: Patients who do not exhibit behavioral inhibition or anxiety-related behaviors may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to early identification and targeted interventions for infants at risk of developing anxiety disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between brain connectivity and anxiety, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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.
Conditions Anxiety Disorders
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.