Understanding how early life experiences affect child brain development
9/24- Healthy Brain and Child Development National Consortium
This study is looking at how different environmental challenges affect the growth and brain development of children from birth to 10 years old, and it’s designed for families with young kids to help understand what can support their healthy development.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10879160 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of various environmental hazards on child development, focusing on children from birth to 10 years old. It aims to establish a comprehensive understanding of neurodevelopmental trajectories by analyzing a diverse sample of 7,500 mothers and infants across the United States. The study employs advanced neuroimaging techniques, along with behavioral and physiological assessments, to gather data on how factors like maternal health and stress influence brain development. By creating a detailed dataset, the research seeks to provide insights that can inform interventions and support for at-risk children.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation include mothers and their infants, particularly those who may have experienced environmental hazards during pregnancy or early life.
Not a fit: Patients who are older than 10 years or those without any exposure to the identified environmental hazards may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for promoting healthy brain development in children, particularly those exposed to adverse experiences.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding neurodevelopmental impacts through similar methodologies, indicating a promising approach for this study.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Northwestern University at Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wakschlag, Lauren S — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Wakschlag, Lauren S
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.