Using MRI to predict autism risk in infants
MRI Based Presymptomatic Prediction of ASD
This study is looking at how brain scans can help find babies who might be at risk for autism before they show any signs, so that families can get support early on, especially for infants with older siblings who have autism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10569561 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to identify infants at high risk for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) before they show any behavioral signs. By using advanced MRI techniques, the study will analyze brain images of infants with older autistic siblings to predict the likelihood of developing ASD by the age of two. The goal is to enable early interventions that could significantly improve outcomes for these children. The research focuses on infants as young as six months old, utilizing structural and functional MRI to gather critical data.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are infants aged six months to one year who have an older sibling diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a family history of autism or those who are older than one year may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier diagnosis and intervention for infants at high risk of developing autism, potentially improving their developmental outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results using MRI techniques to predict autism risk, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pruett, John R — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Pruett, John R
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 below.