Wearable technology for brain imaging in children and adults
Official title: Wearable modular high-density diffuse optical tomography
Funded at Esperimage LLC · NIH-10700158 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new wearable device that helps take better pictures of the brain, especially for kids and adults with autism, so we can spot changes in brain function earlier and provide support when it's needed most.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Esperimage LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | September 7, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $423,961 |
| NIH project number | 5R41MH131449-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10700158 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include children and adults with autism spectrum disorder or those exhibiting behavioral symptoms related to neurodevelopmental disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without neurodevelopmental disorders or those who do not fall within the age range of 0-21 years may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a high-fidelity, wearable optical technology that aims to improve brain imaging for both children and adults. By addressing the limitations of traditional imaging methods like MRI, this innovative approach seeks to provide naturalistic brain imaging, particularly for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The technology will allow for better early detection of brain function alterations associated with ASD, which is crucial for timely interventions. The study will involve assessing the effectiveness of this new imaging technique in real-world settings, where children can move and interact freely.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate detection of autism spectrum disorder, improving treatment outcomes for affected individuals.
How similar studies have gone: While optical neuroimaging is a relatively novel approach, previous studies have shown promise in using similar technologies for brain mapping, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Esperimage LLC
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Trobaugh, Jason Wayne — Esperimage LLC
- Study coordinator: Trobaugh, Jason Wayne
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.