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 The purpose of FinnBrain research project is to investigate the combined influence of environmental and genetic factors on the development of a child's brain. Through the understanding of these influential factors, steps can be taken to promote both the family's well being as well as health for the children and adolescents.
The initial exposure of environmental factors already starts during the prenatal period and early infancy. These factors can have impact on both the quality of life and health related issues in adulthood. Our research group is primarily interested in studying the factors leading to stress regulation and its development. In the long run, we also aim to study the adult-health related problems, mainly focussing on cardiovascular and mental disorders.
We recruit pregnant women and their partners to participate in the study at their first ultrasound examination appointment at maternity health clinics in Turku. The pilot study includes 200 families from Turku. However, the goal for the actual study is to include up to 10 000 participating families from Turku, Helsinki regions, and Åland Islands.
Participating parents are examined during the pregnancy. The follow-up of the children will continue until they reach adulthood. Follow-up is carried out with the help of questionnaires and public registers to collect information relating to children’s overall development, life events, and other environmental factors. Furthermore, child’s genes/genotype, brain structure, and function are mapped and the levels of oxytocin, vasopressin, and the stress hormone cortisol are measured.
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