Understanding how newborn brains adapt and respond to treatments

Individualized Mechanisms of Neural Plasticity and Response to Interventions in Neonates

['FUNDING_R01'] · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-10979637

This study is looking at how newborns' brains grow and change, especially to help kids who might face mental health challenges later on, so we can find the best ways to support them early on when their brains are most flexible.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10979637 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how the brains of newborns develop and change, particularly in relation to psychiatric disorders that can affect children. By focusing on the early stages of brain development, the study aims to identify specific brain networks that are most adaptable and responsive to interventions. Researchers will measure changes in brain activity week by week to personalize treatment strategies for high-risk infants. The goal is to implement preventative measures early in life when the brain is most capable of change.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are newborns identified as high-risk for developing psychiatric disorders due to family history or other factors.

Not a fit: Patients who are older than infancy or those without a predisposition to psychiatric disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to early interventions that significantly reduce the risk of developing psychiatric disorders in children.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding brain plasticity in infants, but this specific approach is novel and aims to personalize interventions.

Where this research is happening

SAINT LOUIS, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.