Neurodevelopment
What is Neurodevelopment?
Neurodevelopment is a broad term used to describe the formation of the neurological connections and pathways in the brain. These pathways control performance and functions such as memory, attention, social skills, focus and more. Influences on these neurological pathways can impact the way a person’s brain develops. Examples of conditions resulting from impacts to neurodevelopment include but aren’t limited to: Autism, ADHD, cerebral palsy, and vision or hearing impairments.
If you would like to contribute to further research on causes and treatments of neurodevelopmental conditions, please visit our donation page.
Integration with Owerko Centre
In 2018, this NeuroTeam merged with the Owerko Centre for Neurodevelopment and Child Mental Health, a multidisciplinary research hub with a broad focus on neurodevelopment, neurodevelopmental conditions, and child mental health. The Owerko Centre is a centre within the Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute (ACHRI).
Research Impact
UCalgary researchers discover prenatal stress can alter brain development
Neuroimmune cells show response to prenatal stress that adversely affect males more than females.
Government of Alberta announces over $22M in funding for UCalgary researchers
Dr. Signe Bray, PhD is exploring the use of MRIs in early detection and targeted treatment of mental illness.
The story behind the launch of the Azrieli Accelerator
A national research vision, motivated by philanthropy from the heart, intersects with UCalgary's research strengths, in particular in neurodevelopment.
Quick facts
Neurodevelopment Details and Questions
Neurodevelopment has Lifelong Impacts
The circuitry involved in the brain’s development is interconnected and the timing, pace, and placement of development can speed up, delay, or sidetrack integral steps in the brain’s developmental process.
Neurodevelopment Conditions are Broad
People often think of neurodevelopmental conditions as autism or ADHD, but the range of conditions is wide, and also includes things like cerebral palsy, impaired hearing or vision, and decreased memory function.
Neurodevelopment is Complex
Neurodevelopment is complex and multiple factors contribute to the success or challenges of a given individual. Most conditions are a result of a combination of genetic, biological, psychosocial and environmental risk factors.
Progress in Neurodevelopment
Neurodevelopment fields are continually making great strides in both treatment and causes of various conditions, allowing for greater quality and longevity of life despite the challenges faced by some individuals.
Research Highlights
- Gestational Exposure to Common Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals and Their Impact on Neurodevelopment and Behavior
This study summarizes the major literature findings of endocrine disruption of neurodevelopment and concomitant changes in behavior by four major endocrine disruptor classes: bisphenol A, polychlorinated biphenyls, organophosphates, and polybrominated diphenyl ethers. Read the full study in the Annual Review of Physiology here. - UCalgary scientists discover genetic condition linked to developmental disorders in children
Basic and clinical researchers team up to better understand rare diseases. Read the full study in Cell Reports here. - Bridging the Gaps in the Study of Typical and Atypical Cognitive Development: A Commentary
The articles in this special issue of the Journal of Cognition and Development examine the cognitive development of children who are following typical and atypical developmental pathways. Read the full issue in Journal of Cognition and Development here.