Understanding how children's brain networks develop to predict future behavior
Official title: Leveraging pediatric state-specific functional brain network dynamics to predict developmental outcomes
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11169933 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the brains of babies and toddlers connect and change as they grow, especially while they sleep, to help understand their development and any potential challenges they might face later on.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | August 14, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $632,950 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HD115540-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11169933 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include infants and toddlers aged 0-2 years who are undergoing routine developmental assessments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients outside the age range of 0-2 years or those without developmental concerns may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the functional architecture of the developing brain in infants and toddlers, focusing on how brain connectivity changes during the first two years of life. Using advanced imaging techniques like functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), the study aims to identify patterns in brain activity during sleep that may indicate developmental milestones and the risk of psychological issues. By analyzing how age and sleep states affect brain connectivity, researchers hope to create more accurate models for predicting future developmental outcomes in children.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to early identification of developmental delays and mental health issues in children, allowing for timely interventions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies using similar fMRI techniques have shown promise in understanding brain development, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wheelock, Muriah D — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Wheelock, Muriah D
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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.