The main focus of Dr. Tager-Flusberg’s research for the past 3 decades has been on defining the neurocognitive bases of the language, communication, and associated social-cognitive deficits in autism (ASD) and other neurodevelopmental disorders. During the past decade she has explored the relationship between language impairments in ASD and in specific language impairment (SLI) using behavioral/cognitive methods and structural imaging (MRI) in probands, and in investigations of language functioning in first degree relatives. In 2007, she began a longitudinal investigation of infants at risk for either ASD or SLI using neurobehavioral measures (RO1 DC 10290; Simons Foundation). The project is a critical extension of all her prior research in that it begins to address the pathophysiology of language processing impairments in SLI and ASD using functioning neuroimaging in combination with genomics, which allows direct testing of whether these complex disorders share a common partially overlapping etiology.
What if we could diagnose autism or communication delays before a child’s first birthday?
The Infant Sibling Project aims to identify risk markers for autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) or language delays that may be present during the first 12 months of life. Identifying high risk infants at this early stage would allow for early intervention to begin much sooner than is currently possible, greatly increasing the potential for such treatments to have a lasting, positive impact on children and their families. To achieve these goals, we depend on area families who are willing to volunteer. Read on to learn how you can help.
Who can participate?
Parents who are expecting or have an infant aged 6 months or younger and also have an older child. In particular, we are looking for families with an older child with an ASD or language delays.
What is involved?
Babies in this project will be monitored closely for signs of autism or language delays from 6 months to 36 months, and beyond. Participation involves video taped observations of your baby’s social and language behavior in response to structured activities. We will also measure your baby’s brain response to pictures and sounds during the visits. In addition, the study includes keeping a weekly diary tracking your baby’s new skills and filming your baby at home every few weeks. We would also like to interview you and see your older child during one visit.
What is the time commitment?
We would like to see you and your baby a few times during the first two years. We also hope to follow-up with you and your baby when he or she is 3 years old. Scheduling is flexible and based on your needs.
How are participating families compensated?
Travel and parking are fully covered. We will also compensate you for your time and provide small gifts for your children.
Who is conducting the project?
Our researchers are highly trained staff at the Boston University School of Medicine and Children’s Hospital Boston. We are funded by Autism Speaks, the National Institutes of Health and The Simons Foundation.
Where does the study take place?
The visits take place at the Labs of Cognitive Neuroscience at Children’s Hospital Boston.
For more information about participating in this research project, please contact:
Kerri Downing
E-mail: project.infantsibling@gmail.com
Tel: 617-455-7238
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