Understanding language development in infants at risk for autism and ADHD
Official title: Examining transdiagnostic mechanisms of language development in infants at elevated likelihood for autism and ADHD
Funded at University of California at Davis · NIH-10997219 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how babies who might be at risk for autism and ADHD learn to talk, using a fun eye-tracking game to see how they connect words to their meanings and the world, so we can better understand their language development.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California at Davis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Davis, United States) |
| Project start | July 10, 2024 |
| Project end | July 9, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $41,972 |
| NIH project number | 1F31HD116517-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10997219 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation are infants aged 0-36 months who have a familial likelihood of developing autism or ADHD.
✕Less likely to help
Infants who do not have a familial history of autism or ADHD may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how language development occurs in infants who are at a higher risk for autism and ADHD. By examining a group of infants over time, the study aims to identify common mechanisms that may lead to language delays in these populations. The research utilizes a novel eye-tracking task to observe how infants connect words with their meanings and the world around them. This approach allows for a deeper understanding of the developmental processes involved in language acquisition, particularly in those who may face challenges.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved early interventions for infants at risk for autism and ADHD, enhancing their language development.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding language development in similar populations, but this study's transdiagnostic approach is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California at Davis
Davis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Piergies, Antonia — University of California at Davis
- Study coordinator: Piergies, Antonia
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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.