453 PERFORM: Persistent effects of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) on infant brain development: A comparative magnetoencephalography (MEG) study

Abstract

Objectives/Goals: Evaluate the impact of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) on neonatal brain development using magnetoencephalography (MEG) and correlate findings with NICU Network Neurobehavioral scale (NNNS) scores at 1 month Methods/Study Population: In this prospective cohort study, we will enroll 30 participants, consisting of 15 neonates diagnosed with IUGR and 15 healthy controls, matched by gestational age, from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. We will perform MEG scans at three key developmental stages: during fetal life, at 1 month, and at 3 months of age and a Bayley IV exam at 12 months of age. The NNNS assessments will be conducted at the 1-month visit to evaluate neurobehavioral outcomes. All MEG data will be synchronized with clinical evaluations and maternal health records to ensure comprehensive analysis. Results/Anticipated Results: We anticipate that the study will reveal significant differences in brain maturation and neural activity patterns between IUGR-affected infants and healthy controls. Specifically, we expect to find altered neural connectivity and delayed maturation in the delta and theta frequency bands during the early neonatal period in the IUGR group. These anticipated neuroimaging findings will be correlated with NNNS scores to assess functional implications of the observed brain activity differences. If our hypotheses are confirmed, the study will provide robust biomarkers for early identification of neurodevelopmental delays in IUGR-affected infants, paving the way for targeted early interventions. Discussion/Significance of Impact: This study could significantly enhance early detection and intervention strategies for IUGR, potentially reducing long-term neurodevelopmental challenges and improving clinical outcomes