Using wearable technology to study brain activity in mothers and infants during interactions
Developing wearable OPM-MEG to assess brain function in mother-infant dyads during social interactions
This study is testing a new, gentle way to measure brain activity in moms and their babies during everyday interactions, using a special helmet that makes it easy and comfortable for both of them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Blacksburg, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10756476 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on adapting a new type of brain imaging technology called optically pumped magnetometer-based magnetoencephalography (opmMEG) for use in infants. The goal is to record brain activity in both mothers and their infants while they engage in natural social interactions. This method is non-invasive, quiet, and allows for high-resolution data collection without the constraints of traditional imaging techniques. By using wearable helmets, the study aims to capture real-time brain function in a comfortable setting for both mother and child.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include mothers with infants who are under 12 months old and are interested in participating in studies about child development.
Not a fit: Patients who are not mothers or do not have infants under 12 months old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of brain development and social interactions in early childhood, potentially leading to better support for mother-infant bonding and developmental outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using EEG for similar assessments, but this approach with opmMEG is relatively novel and untested in this specific context.
Where this research is happening
Blacksburg, United States
- Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ — Blacksburg, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Howell, Brittany Rollins — Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ
- Study coordinator: Howell, Brittany Rollins
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.