ndar

NDAR stands for the National Database for Autism Research. It is a centralized data repository and research platform designed to support the sharing and integration of autism-related data across studies. By aggregating data from diverse sources, NDAR aims to enable cross-study analyses, replication, and data-driven discovery. It operates within the U.S. federal NIH data-sharing ecosystem and collaborates with institutions worldwide.

The system uses standardized data models and common data elements to harmonize datasets collected with different protocols. Each participant is linked by a unique NDAR subject identifier, allowing researchers to connect phenotypic, imaging, genomic, and other data while preserving privacy. Researchers submit de-identified data, along with documentation and metadata, under governance rules and data-use agreements.

Access to NDAR data is controlled by governance processes, typically including a Data Access Committee and approved data-use requests. Researchers apply to reuse data for approved studies, with requirements for attribution and privacy compliance.

Contents commonly include neuroimaging data (such as MRI and fMRI), genetics and genomics, behavioral and developmental assessments, medical history, and longitudinal follow-up data from autism research studies. The platform supports data sharing, collaboration, and large-scale analyses to advance understanding of autism spectrum disorders.

See also: NIMH Data Archive and related neuroscience data repositories.