Improving the Understanding of Catatonia in Autism

The specific aims of the study are to:

1. Identify and phenotype participants ranging in age from 10-30 years old who are already diagnosed with catatonia.
2. Review laboratory investigations already complete and further conduct any laboratory tests which were not previously completed, to exclude a general medical etiology of catatonia.
3. Obtain skin biopsy for fibroblast from participant to reprogram somatic cells to iPSC (induced pluripotent cell lines) which will be differentiated to cortical neurons for in vitro pharmacological studies against the target tissue.

Up to 30 patients will be consented. Eligibility will be determined through UM medical record screening. When a potential participant is identified, the study team will reach out to the treating clinician to make contact with participant about research interest. Informed consent will be obtained prior to initiation of any study-related procedures. Consent may be emailed at request of potential participants or their representative in advance of a scheduled research appointment for their review. Additionally, informed consent will take place in person both verbally and in writing, with adequate time for participants to ask questions.

Following informed consent, a comprehensive psychiatric interview will be completed to identify overall psychiatric diagnoses and symptoms of catatonia. Based on this evaluation, a decision will be made whether or not the individual is testable or untestable for neurocognitive assessments.

A physical exam will be performed which will include weight, height, waist and head circumference, as well as vital signs that include blood pressure and pulse rate.