New AI maps brain development in detail to spot early signs of disorders.
An AI can now pinpoint exactly where a baby's brain development is lagging behind.
Deep Dive
Researchers developed SurfAge-Net, an AI that predicts brain age with unprecedented regional detail. Unlike whole-brain methods, it analyzes specific cortical areas to map maturation patterns. It achieved high accuracy, with an average error of just 0.45 weeks in newborns. This allows it to identify localized developmental delays, providing a precise tool for early detection of neurodevelopmental disorders like autism, moving beyond a single 'brain age' score.
Why It Matters
This enables earlier, more targeted interventions for children with developmental disorders.