Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Observational Ages 10 to 100

Observing the progression of Stargardt-like Macular Dystrophy due to ELOVL4 mutations

Official title: An Observational Prospective Natural History Study of Stargardt-like Macular Dystrophy (STDG3) Secondary to Mutations in ELOVL4

Run by National Institutes of Health Clinical Center (CC) · NCT04591483 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is trying to see how Stargardt-like Macular Dystrophy affects vision and eye health over time in people aged 10 and older with ELOVL4 gene mutations.

More Stargardt Macular Dystrophy trials

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Ages10 Years to 100 Years
SexAll
Enrollment25 (estimated)
SponsorNational Institutes of Health Clinical Center (CC)
NIH
Locations1 site (Bethesda, Maryland)
StatusRecruiting
StartedApril 19, 2022
Main results expectedJuly 16, 2028
Study endsJuly 16, 2028
Registry record updatedSeptember 17, 2026
Trial IDNCT04591483 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates are individuals aged 10 and older diagnosed with STDG3 due to a mutation in the ELOVL4 gene.

Probably not a fit

Patients with multiple mutations in ABCA4 or systemic medical contraindications related to ELOVL4 may not benefit from this study.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to understand the natural history of Stargardt-like Macular Dystrophy (STDG3) by assessing longitudinal changes in retinal structure and function in affected individuals. Participants aged 10 and older with mutations in the ELOVL4 gene will undergo a series of six visits over three years, including comprehensive eye exams and imaging tests. The study will track changes in retinal health and functional vision, providing valuable insights into the disease's progression.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to a better understanding of STDG3, potentially informing future treatment strategies.

How similar studies have gone: While there have been cross-sectional studies on STDG3, this longitudinal approach is relatively novel and aims to fill a gap in existing research.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
* INCLUSION CRITERIA:

To be eligible, the following inclusion criteria must be met, where applicable.

1. Stated willingness to comply with all study procedures and availability for the duration of the study.
2. Participant must be at least ten years of age.
3. Ability to perform required functional testing and ophthalmic imaging.
4. A mutation in ELOVL4 with a typical clinical presentation of Stargardt-like macular dystrophy.
5. Participant (or legal guardian) must understand and sign the protocol s informed consent document.

EXCLUSION CRITERIA:

A participant is not eligible if any of the following exclusion criteria are present.

1. Two or more definitive mutations in ABCA4 and/or one mutation in RDS/peripherin or PROM1.
2. Systemic medical contraindications that are rarely associated with ELOVL4 (e.g., Spinocerebellar Ataxia-34).

Where it's running

  • National Institutes of Health Clinical Center
    Bethesda, Maryland, United States
    Recruiting

Study contacts

  • Principal investigator: Brett G Jeffrey, Ph.D. — National Eye Institute (NEI)
  • Study coordinator: Daniel W Claus, R.N.
  • Email: daniel.claus@nih.gov
  • Phone: (301) 451-1621

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
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.