Understanding Fetal Brain Development Using MRI
Measuring cortical plate and subplate thickness in the human fetal brain from magnetic resonance images
This project aims to create new computer tools to precisely measure parts of a baby's brain while still in the womb using MRI scans.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11135535 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We are working to develop advanced computer programs that can automatically measure the thickness of specific layers in a baby's brain, called the cortical plate and subplate, from MRI images taken before birth. These measurements are important because they tell us about how brain cells are growing and connecting. Currently, it's hard to get accurate measurements from fetal MRI due to the small size and movement, so our new methods will help overcome these challenges. By improving how we measure these brain structures, we hope to better understand normal brain development and identify early signs of potential issues.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational work focuses on developing tools to analyze existing fetal MRI data, so direct patient participation is not currently part of this specific grant.
Not a fit: Patients not undergoing fetal MRI or those whose conditions are unrelated to early brain structural development may not directly benefit from this particular research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to earlier detection of brain development differences in babies, potentially allowing for earlier interventions or better understanding of various brain conditions.
How similar studies have performed: While postnatal cortical thickness measurements are well-established, developing accurate, automated methods for the unique challenges of fetal brain MRI is a novel and less explored area.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston Children's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Im, Kiho — Boston Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Im, Kiho
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 below.