Human Epilepsy Genetics--Neuronal Migration Disorders Study
For patients and families
In plain language
An automatic summary of structured registry data. It is an orientation aid, not a substitute for the official protocol or a physician assessment.
- What is being studied
- This is an observational study: the protocol does not assign a study treatment.
- Who it may be relevant to
- Registry conditions: Brain Malformation, Neuronal Migration Disorder, Cognition Disorder, Epilepsy. Basic parameters: No limits · All.
- What needs checking
- Age, condition and sex are only basic indicators. Prior treatment, laboratory values and other mandatory requirements appear in the eligibility criteria below.
- Where it takes place
- United States
- Next step
- Save the trial, show it to the treating physician, and confirm current recruitment with the study center. Costs, documents and travel →
Unsure about the terms? Read our patient guide →
Overview
The purpose of this study is to identify genes responsible for epilepsy, brain malformations and disorders of human cognition.
Detailed description
Epilepsy is responsible for tremendous long-term healthcare costs. Analysis of inherited epilepsy conditions has allowed for identification of several key genes active in the developing brain. Although many genetic abnormalities of the brain are rare and lethal, rapidly advancing knowledge of the structure of the human genome makes it a realistic goal to identify genes responsible for other epileptic conditions, related brain malformations and disorders of cognition.
The purpose of this study is to identify genes responsible for epilepsy and disorders of human cognition (EDHC). The Walsh Laboratory at Boston Children's Hospital is looking for genes involved in brain development. Conditions that we study include brain malformations, such as polymicrogyria, lissencephaly, pachygyria, heterotopias, microcephaly and cerebellar hypoplasia, and inherited disorders of cognition, such as familial intellectual disability and familial autism. People with these conditions also often have epilepsy. The structural brain abnormalities are usually diagnosed by brain MRI or sometimes CT scans. Adults and children with these conditions, and their family members, are invited to participate in our study. By comparing the DNA of individuals or families that carry EDHC to the DNA of people in the general population, it may be possible to learn more about the genetic bases of certain forms of EDHC.
Study participants must have a brain malformation or disorder of cognition, such as familial intellectual disability or autism, in order to take part in this research.
Primary outcome measures
- Identification and characterization of genes important in normal brain development and associated with brain malformations. [Time frame: Ongoing]
Eligibility criteria
INCLUSION:
- Males and females of any age.
- Persons with a brain malformation or disorder of cognition (familial intellectual disability \[previously known as mental retardation\] or autism).
EXCLUSION:
- Persons without a brain malformation or disorder of cognition (familial intellectual disability (previously known as mental retardation\] or autism).
Criteria are shown verbatim from the registry (in English). Final eligibility is always assessed by the study center.
Healthy volunteers: No
Study design
- Observational model
- Family-based
Study locations
United States · 1 center
- Boston Children's Hospital, Walsh Laboratory — Boston
Identifiers
NCT: NCT00041600 · R01NS035129