Using advanced MRI techniques to study how the human brain develops in early life.

Computational Diffusion MRI for Studying Early Human Brain Development

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL · NIH-11118987

This study is all about learning how babies' brains grow and change in their first few years, using special MRI technology to help us spot both typical and unusual brain development, which can help us understand conditions that affect how their brains develop.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CHAPEL HILL, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11118987 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the dynamic changes in the structure and function of the human brain during the first years of life. By utilizing advanced computational diffusion MRI techniques, the project aims to develop tools that can accurately analyze baby MRI data, which is crucial for identifying both normal and abnormal brain development. The study will leverage longitudinal data from the Baby Connectome Project to track the growth of white matter pathways and tissue microstructure in infants. This approach will help researchers better understand neurodevelopmental disorders linked to atypical brain growth.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include infants and young children, particularly those at risk for neurodevelopmental disorders.

Not a fit: Patients who are adults or those whose brain development is no longer in the early stages may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved early detection and intervention strategies for neurodevelopmental disorders in children.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in using advanced MRI techniques to study brain development, indicating that this approach is promising and builds on established methodologies.

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.

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.