The Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study: Imaging acquisition across 21 sites

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Developmental Psychology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• The Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study is a major longitudinal research initiative.
• Understanding adolescent brain development is crucial for public health.
• Previous research has lacked large-scale, harmonized neuroimaging data.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the neuroimaging procedures used in the ABCD study.
• To detail the rationale behind the selection and optimization of imaging protocols.
• To assess the feasibility, age-appropriateness, and generalizability of the imaging methods.

Main Methods:

• Standardized structural and functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) protocols.
• Harmonization of imaging acquisition and analysis across 21 study sites.
• Quality assurance procedures to ensure data integrity and reliability.

Main Results:

• Imaging procedures were successfully implemented across all sites.
• Data quality assurance indicates feasibility and age-appropriateness of the methods.
• Preliminary findings suggest generalizability to existing literature.

Conclusions:

• The ABCD study's imaging component is robust and well-harmonized.
• The standardized approach enables reliable investigation of adolescent brain development.
• The study provides a valuable dataset for understanding brain health and addiction risk.