NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Creating a unified database to improve outcomes for children with Metachromatic Leukodystrophy

Official title: Database Harmonization for Creation and Validation of Outcome Assessments and Prediction Tools for Metachromatic Leukodystrophy (MLD)

Funded at Children's Hosp of Philadelphia · NIH-11055648 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is working to gather and share information about Metachromatic Leukodystrophy (MLD) in young children to help doctors find out which kids might develop the disease early, so they can get the best care and support as soon as possible.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionChildren's Hosp of Philadelphia
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project startJune 1, 2025
Project endMay 31, 2027
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$1,049,035
NIH project number1R61NS135584-01A1
Project IDNIH-11055648 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are children under 11 years old who are at risk for Metachromatic Leukodystrophy.

Less likely to help

Patients who are already diagnosed with advanced stages of MLD may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on Metachromatic Leukodystrophy (MLD), a rare and progressive neurological disease affecting young children. The project aims to harmonize data from multiple institutions to create a comprehensive database that will help identify which patients are at high risk for early onset MLD. By developing risk prediction models and sensitive assessment tools, the research seeks to enhance early diagnosis and treatment options for affected children. The goal is to ensure that interventions can be administered when children are still minimally symptomatic, potentially improving their quality of life.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment options for children at risk of MLD.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in harmonizing data for rare diseases, indicating that this approach has the potential to yield significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

  • Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
    Philadelphia, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Adang, Laura Ann — Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
  • Study coordinator: Adang, Laura Ann

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.