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.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 10 Years to 100 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 25 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | National Institutes of Health Clinical Center (CC) NIH |
| Locations | 1 site (Bethesda, Maryland) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | April 19, 2022 |
| Main results expected | July 16, 2028 |
| Study ends | July 16, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | September 17, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT04591483 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
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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
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.