VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR STUDY OF BRAIN DEVELOPMENT

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR STUDY OF BRAIN DEVELOPMENT

Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder

Christian Beaulieu, PhD; Carmen Rasmussen, PhD; Gail Andrew, MD; Derek Emery, MD

We are conducting a research study using advanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) methods to learn about brain development. We want to determine if the brain develops differently in individuals with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD), and to understand more about the brain areas affected by alcohol exposure in the womb.

We are recruiting participants with an FASD diagnosis who are 5 years of age and older. The study involves an MRI of the brain (~40 mins), followed by cognitive testing (~35 min) done on an iPad. The study takes ~2 hours in total, and is conducted at the University of Alberta Hospital.

MRI does not use ionizing radiation (unlike CT scans or x-rays) and has no known harmful effects. However, participants can’t have metal in their bodies (e.g. from surgeries) or braces, but dental fillings are ok. For participants under 18 years of age, parental/guardian consent and child assent is required. A short preliminary screening form will be given to ensure that the volunteer is eligible for the study.

At the end of the appointment, we will show participants pictures of their brain and provide a $40 reimbursement to cover parking and travel expenses.

The aim of this study is to learn more about how typical brain development is affected by prenatal alcohol exposure. Down the road, this research may contribute to knowledge that facilitates the development of therapies and interventions for children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders and other developmental disabilities.

If you are interested in participating, please call (780) 492- 3908 or e-mail treit@ualberta.ca.

This study is funded by the Canadian Institute for Health Research (CIHR).

Department of Biomedical Engineering Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry
1098 Research Transition Facility  University of Alberta  Edmonton  Alberta  Canada  T6G 2V2 Telephone: (780) 492-0908 Fax: (780) 492-8259 Website: http://www.mri.ualberta.ca Email: christian.beaulieu@ualberta.ca