Observing the natural history of Canavan disease in patients

A Combination Retrospective Medical History and Prospective Observational Study of Patients With Canavan Disease for Assessment of Natural History of Canavan Disease

Aspa Therapeutics · NCT04126005

This study is looking to learn more about Canavan disease by tracking the health and development of patients over time, including gathering information from their medical records and family visits.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment70 (estimated)
SexAll
SponsorAspa Therapeutics (industry)
Locations4 sites (Oakland, California and 3 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04126005 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

The CANinform study is a multinational observational effort aimed at gathering both retrospective and prospective data on Canavan disease. It involves extracting medical records from both living and deceased patients to document disease characteristics and developmental milestones. Additionally, the study collects longitudinal data through motor function assessments conducted remotely or in-clinic over a period of approximately three years. Families are invited to participate in clinic visits and follow-ups to enhance data collection and understanding of the disease's progression.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include children diagnosed with Canavan disease who have accessible medical records documenting their disease history.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a confirmed diagnosis of Canavan disease or lack the necessary medical records will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide valuable insights into the natural progression of Canavan disease, potentially informing future treatment strategies.

How similar studies have performed: While this study represents a novel multinational effort, similar observational studies have successfully gathered critical data on rare diseases, suggesting potential for meaningful insights.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Meet age criteria of a specific cohort.
2. Confirmed clinical and biochemical diagnosis of Canavan disease.
3. Available medical records since birth that permit documentation of disease characteristics and developmental milestones.
4. Parent and/or legal guardian is able to read, understand, and sign the informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Patient does not meet the Inclusion Criteria.

Where this trial is running

Oakland, California and 3 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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Canavan Disease, AAV, AAV9, Gene therapy, Aspartoacylase, ASPA, ASPA gene, rAAV9

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.