Understanding how infants develop the ability to recognize faces

Development of Face-Processing Abilities in Infants: Structural and Functional Brain Changes

NIH-funded research State University of Ny,binghamton · NIH-11097188

This study looks at how babies learn to recognize faces by checking out their brain connections, and it’s for parents who want to understand more about their little ones' development, especially if they have autism.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionState University of Ny,binghamton NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Binghamton, United States)
Project IDNIH-11097188 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how infants develop the ability to recognize faces by examining the brain's structure and function. It uses advanced imaging techniques to analyze the connections in the brain that are involved in face processing. By studying both adults and 12-month-old infants, the research aims to uncover how these connections change as infants grow. The findings could provide insights into the cognitive development of infants, particularly those with autism spectrum disorder.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include infants around 12 months old, particularly those at risk for autism spectrum disorder.

Not a fit: Patients who are older than 21 years or those without developmental concerns related to face processing may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of face recognition development, potentially leading to better interventions for children with autism.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has successfully used similar imaging techniques to study face processing in adults, suggesting potential for success in this infant-focused approach.

Where this research is happening

Binghamton, 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.
Conditions autism spectral disorderautism spectrum disorderAutistic Disorderautistic spectrum disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.