Understanding how Type 1 Diabetes affects brain development in children

Mapping Neurocognitive Complications of Pediatric Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) and Potential Risk and Protective Factors

NIH-funded research Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-10974858

This study is looking at how Type 1 Diabetes affects the thinking skills of young kids, exploring how things like high blood sugar can impact their brain development, so we can better understand and support children who might struggle with attention, learning, and memory.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chapel Hill, United States)
Project IDNIH-10974858 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the cognitive challenges faced by prepubertal children with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) and aims to uncover the biological and psychosocial factors that contribute to these challenges. By examining the impact of various stressors, such as hyperglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis, on brain development, the study seeks to identify children at risk for cognitive deficits. The research employs advanced neuroimaging techniques to assess brain structure and function, providing insights into how T1DM may alter cognitive abilities related to attention, learning, and memory. Through this multidisciplinary approach, the study aims to fill critical gaps in understanding the neurocognitive implications of T1DM in children.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, particularly those who are prepubertal.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have Type 1 Diabetes or are older than the prepubertal age range may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better strategies for preventing cognitive disabilities in children with Type 1 Diabetes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that diabetes can impact brain function, but this study aims to explore these effects in a novel longitudinal context specifically for children.

Where this research is happening

Chapel Hill, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.