Understanding cognitive development in children with Down syndrome

Risk for Severe/Profound Intellectual Disability in Down Syndrome

['FUNDING_R01'] · COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10780464

This study is looking at how children with Down syndrome, especially those with more severe intellectual challenges, grow and learn over time, and it aims to find out what helps or hinders their cognitive development, so we can better understand their unique abilities.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorCOLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (FORT COLLINS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10780464 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the cognitive outcomes of children with Down syndrome, focusing on those who experience severe or profound intellectual disability. The study aims to identify early cognitive growth patterns and the factors that contribute to significant cognitive delays. Researchers will assess 90 children at different stages of development, collecting blood samples and behavioral data to explore the relationship between cognitive abilities and biological markers. The goal is to enhance understanding of the variability in cognitive skills among children with Down syndrome.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-3 years diagnosed with Down syndrome.

Not a fit: Patients who are older than 3 years or do not have a diagnosis of Down syndrome may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved early interventions and support strategies for children with Down syndrome who are at risk for severe cognitive delays.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding cognitive development in Down syndrome, but this specific focus on severe/profound intellectual disability is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

FORT COLLINS, 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 →

Conditions: Autistic Disorder

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.