Using advanced MRI to study brain structure in children with autism
Official title: Ultra high-field (7T) in-vivo imaging for detailed characterization of cerebellar dentate nucleus structure and function in children with autism
Funded at Hugo W. Moser Res Inst Kennedy Krieger · NIH-10987001 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a specific part of the brain in children with autism using a special type of MRI to help us understand how it might be different from kids without autism, which could give us clues about the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Hugo W. Moser Res Inst Kennedy Krieger NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $210,355 |
| NIH project number | 5R21MH133012-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10987001 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, particularly those aged 0-11 years.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not diagnosed with autism or are outside the age range of 0-11 years may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the cerebellar dentate nucleus in children with autism using ultra high-field 7T MRI technology. By employing this advanced imaging technique, the study aims to overcome limitations of traditional MRI methods that have hindered our understanding of this brain region's role in autism. The research will compare the brain structures of autistic children with those of typically developing peers to gain insights into the neurodevelopmental aspects of autism. This could lead to a better understanding of how brain structure relates to the symptoms of autism.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of autism and potentially inform new treatment strategies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques to study brain structure in autism, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Hugo W. Moser Res Inst Kennedy Krieger
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mostofsky, Stewart H — Hugo W. Moser Res Inst Kennedy Krieger
- Study coordinator: Mostofsky, Stewart H
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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.