Understanding brain development and health in children and adolescents

17/21 ABCD-USA CONSORTIUM: RESEARCH PROJECT SITE AT UCLA

['FUNDING_U01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES · NIH-11078290

The ABCD project at UCLA is looking at how kids' brains grow and change, especially how things like their surroundings and substance use can impact their health, and it's for children aged 9-10 and their families who want to help us learn more about growing up healthy.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_U01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11078290 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

The ABCD project at UCLA is part of a nationwide effort to study how children's brains develop and how various factors like substance use and environment affect their health. It involves tracking a diverse group of children aged 9-10 over several years, using advanced brain imaging and regular assessments to gather detailed information about their biological and behavioral changes. Participants and their families engage in annual interviews and periodic assessments through mobile apps, ensuring minimal disruption while providing valuable data on youth development. This comprehensive approach aims to enhance our understanding of adolescent brain health and inform future interventions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation are children aged 9-10 years, along with 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 cannot commit to the long-term follow-up may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for promoting healthy brain development and addressing mental health issues in children and adolescents.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research in similar areas has shown success in understanding brain development and health outcomes, making this approach both promising and well-supported by existing literature.

Where this research is happening

LOS ANGELES, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.