Early Prediction of Infant Growth Faltering and Neurodevelopmental Outcomes Using Clinical and Multi-Omics Data: A Sub-study of the BRANCH Trial
Study Period: April 2026-December 2028
Donor Name: Standford University
Partners: Stanford University School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
Project Description:
Background: Child growth faltering, including wasting, stunting, and underweight remains a critical public health challenge in low- and middle-income countries. These conditions are strongly linked to higher risks of illness, mortality, and impaired neurodevelopment. Identifying infants at risk of poor growth and developmental outcomes early in life is essential to guide timely and effective preventive interventions.
Objective: This study seeks to determine whether clinical characteristics and biological markers measured in early infancy can predict subsequent growth faltering and neurodevelopmental outcomes among infants in Bangladesh.
Method: This prospective longitudinal sub-study will include approximately 400 infants from the BRANCH trial cohort in Zakiganj, Sylhet, Bangladesh. Blood samples will be collected as dried blood spots (DBS) at 7–14 days after birth and again at around 6 months of age, with an optional additional sample if growth faltering is detected. Metabolomic and lipidomic analyses will be performed to identify biological markers associated with growth faltering. Infant growth outcomes including wasting, stunting, and underweight will be assessed through routine anthropometric measurements, while neurodevelopmental assessments and additional anthropometric evaluations will be conducted at 12 and 24 months of age.
Significance: The findings from this research will enhance understanding of the biological mechanisms underlying infant growth faltering and neurodevelopmental impairment. Identifying early biomarkers may inform strategies for early detection and prevention of malnutrition and developmental delays, ultimately contributing to improved child health outcomes.