Genetic Contributions to Autism Spectrum Disorders
Overview
- Phase
- Not Applicable
- Intervention
- Not specified
- Conditions
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Sponsor
- Boston Children's Hospital
- Enrollment
- 240
- Locations
- 1
- Primary Endpoint
- Gene expression levels
- Status
- Active, not recruiting
- Last Updated
- 2 years ago
Overview
Brief Summary
This study is working towards gaining a better understanding of the genetic and environmental factors involved in autism spectrum disorders (ASD), which includes autism, pervasive developmental disorder (PDD), and Asperger's syndrome. The investigators hope that information gained from this study will lead to new ways of diagnosing and treating ASDs.
Detailed Description
Participation generally takes less than 2 hours to complete and travel to Children's Hospital Boston is not required. Participants are asked some questions about their medical and family history. The investigators also request permission to review medical records related to the ASD diagnosis. Finally, the investigators obtain a small blood or saliva sample in order to search for genes that may be important in understanding ASD. The investigators can arrange for the blood draw through a participant's physician or a clinical laboratory and saliva samples can be obtained through the mail. The study questions are answered via telephone or mailed questionnaires. There is no cost to participate.
Investigators
Christopher Walsh
Chief, Division of Genetics & Genomics
Boston Children's Hospital
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria
- •Clinical diagnosis of an Autism Spectrum Disorder (autism, pervasive developmental disorder (PDD), or Asperger's syndrome)
- •Age \> 18 months
Exclusion Criteria
- •Do not have the diagnosis of an ASD
- •Participation in the "Phenotypic and Genetic Risk Factors in ASD" study at Boston Children's Hospital.
Outcomes
Primary Outcomes
Gene expression levels
Time Frame: At sample collection
Gene expression levels