Understanding brain development in children with autism

A longitudinal study of brain development in children with autism

['FUNDING_R01'] · CHILDREN'S HOSP OF PHILADELPHIA · NIH-11112364

This research looks at how the brains of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) grow and change over time, especially focusing on how they process sounds.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorCHILDREN'S HOSP OF PHILADELPHIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11112364 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

We are following children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) over many years to see how their brains develop. Previous findings suggest that brain maturation in ASD might start too fast and then slow down. This project aims to confirm if this pattern continues into early adolescence, specifically looking at how the brain processes sounds. By understanding these unique developmental patterns, we hope to create better ways to assess and support children with ASD at different ages.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this type of research would be children with autism spectrum disorder, likely within the age ranges being studied, who are willing to participate in long-term brain imaging and auditory tests.

Not a fit: Patients without autism spectrum disorder or those outside the specific age groups being observed would not directly benefit from this particular research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to identify and treat autism spectrum disorder that are tailored to a child's specific stage of brain development.

How similar studies have performed: Previous work by this research team has already shown consistent patterns of brain development in children with autism, suggesting a foundation for this continued investigation.

Where this research is happening

PHILADELPHIA, 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.