Understanding how babies' brains fold using MRI technology
Official title: Mechanics of Brain Folding in Human Infants Evaluated Using MRI
Funded at Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-10980651 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how babies' brains grow and change during the last few months of pregnancy to help us understand why some kids might develop conditions like autism or anxiety later on.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $546,094 |
| NIH project number | 1R01NS133116-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10980651 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include pregnant women and their infants, particularly those at risk for developmental disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are older than 10 years or do not have any developmental concerns may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the critical period of brain development in human infants, particularly during the third trimester, when the brain undergoes significant changes in structure. Using advanced MRI techniques, the study aims to understand how the brain's surface expands and folds, which is essential for normal brain function. By examining these processes, researchers hope to uncover the mechanisms that lead to various developmental disorders, including autism and anxiety. The approach combines observational data with computational models to better predict brain morphology and its implications for health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and early detection of developmental disorders in infants.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain development through imaging techniques, but this specific approach is novel and aims to fill existing gaps in knowledge.
Where this research is happening
-
Indiana University Indianapolis
Indianapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Garcia, Kara E — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Garcia, Kara E
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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.