Using advanced MRI to study brain structure in children with autism

Ultra high-field (7T) in-vivo imaging for detailed characterization of cerebellar dentate nucleus structure and function in children with autism

NIH-funded research Hugo W. Moser Res Inst Kennedy Krieger · NIH-10987001

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 typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionHugo W. Moser Res Inst Kennedy Krieger NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-10987001 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, particularly those aged 0-11 years.

Not a fit: Patients who are not diagnosed with autism or are outside the age range of 0-11 years may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

Baltimore, 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 2026-06-13 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.