Understanding how puberty and age affect brain development and mental health in youth
Characterizing pubertal and age mechanisms of neurodevelopment and association with rising internalizing symptoms
This study is looking at how kids' and teens' brains grow and change from ages 5 to 21, and how these changes might affect their mental health, especially for those who go through puberty early, to help find the best times to offer support for issues like anxiety and depression.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11001540 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex relationship between brain development and mental health in children and adolescents, focusing on the roles of age and puberty. By using advanced brain imaging techniques, the study aims to create a detailed picture of how brain structure and function evolve from ages 5 to 21. It will analyze how these developmental changes may contribute to mental health issues, particularly internalizing symptoms like anxiety and depression, especially in those who experience early puberty. The findings could help identify critical periods for intervention and support.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation include children and adolescents aged 5 to 21, particularly those experiencing early puberty or showing signs of internalizing symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 5 to 21 or those not experiencing any developmental or mental health concerns may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and early identification of mental health issues in youth, allowing for timely interventions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain development and its impact on mental health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Cambridge, United States
- Harvard University — Cambridge, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Somerville, Leah Helene — Harvard University
- Study coordinator: Somerville, Leah Helene
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.