ACEs and Brain Development in Adolescence
Project Overview
This project investigates the impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and sex differences on brain development during adolescence, utilizing data from the large-scale Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study. We aim to understand how early life stress interacts with biological sex to shape neural trajectories during this critical developmental period.
Key Research Questions
- How do different types and timing of ACEs impact adolescent brain structure and function?
- Are there sex-specific effects of ACEs on brain development pathways?
- Which neural circuits are most vulnerable to the effects of early adversity?
- Can we identify biomarkers that predict long-term outcomes following ACEs exposure?
Methodology
We employ advanced computational methods, including machine learning and network modeling, applied to the multimodal neuroimaging (structural MRI, fMRI, DTI) and behavioral data from the ABCD Study. Longitudinal analyses track developmental changes over time.
Current Status
Analyses are ongoing, focusing on identifying specific patterns of brain alteration linked to ACEs and exploring how these differ between males and females. Initial findings highlight the importance of considering both ACEs and sex in understanding adolescent brain development.