Identifying metabolic and immune biomarkers in neurological disorders

Transgenerational Metabolic-Immune Biomarkers of Neurological and Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Observational Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center · NCT04322734

This study is trying to see if measuring mitochondrial function can help identify children with neurological disorders like autism and epilepsy.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment500 (estimated)
AgesN/A to 18 Years
SexAll
SponsorSouthwest Autism Research & Resource Center Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Phoenix, Arizona and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04322734 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to explore the role of mitochondrial function in various neurological and neurodevelopmental disorders, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, epilepsy, and brain tumors. Participants will undergo up to five visits for fasting blood draws, behavioral assessments, and questionnaires to collect relevant data. The study seeks to develop a non-invasive method to measure mitochondrial function variations using the Seahorse Analyzer, which could help identify children with medical disorders linked to mitochondrial dysfunction. The research is designed to enhance understanding of how mitochondrial health impacts these conditions.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include children aged 0 to 17 years with Autism Spectrum Disorder, mitochondrial pathology, epilepsy, brain tumors, or psychiatric disorders.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of significant adverse reactions to blood draws or those who are pregnant may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved diagnostic methods for children with neurological and neurodevelopmental disorders.

How similar studies have performed: While mitochondrial dysfunction has been studied in relation to various conditions, this specific approach using the Seahorse Analyzer for non-invasive assessment is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria (ASD):

1. ASD, as defined by either a gold standard measure for ASD diagnosis, the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS); the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R); and/or a comprehensive assessment that is consistent with ASD, in the opinion of the principal investigator. For those the PI believes a prospective diagnosis of ASD is warranted, a formal diagnostic assessment will be scheduled at screening.
2. 0 years through 17 years 11 months of age

Inclusion Criteria (TD, MD, Epilepsy, Brain Tumor, Psychiatric)

1\. 0 years to 17 years 11 months of age

Exclusion Criteria (All):

1. History of a significant adverse reaction to a prior blood draw
2. In females of reproductive age, pregnancy or plans to become pregnant
3. Any other historical event/information that may, in the opinion of the PI, be a reason to exclude the child from participation.

Where this trial is running

Phoenix, Arizona and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Autism Spectrum DisorderMitochondrial PathologyEpilepsyBrain TumorPsychiatric DisorderMitochondrial Diseases
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.