Online program for families with genetic changes linked to autism
Official title: Online Study of People Who Have Genetic Changes and Features of Autism: Simons Searchlight
Run by Simons Searchlight · NCT01238250 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is trying to see how an online program can help families with genetic changes related to autism by gathering their health and development information.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 100000 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Simons Searchlight Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Boston, Massachusetts and 1 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 2010 |
| Main results expected | October 2050 |
| Study ends | October 2050 |
| Registry record updated | July 23, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT01238250 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include individuals of any age with specific genetic conditions related to autism, along with their biological family members.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with genetic changes that are not eligible for the study, as determined by genetic counselors, may not benefit from this program.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
Simons Searchlight is an observational, international research initiative that gathers medical, behavioral, learning, and developmental information from individuals with rare genetic variants associated with neurodevelopmental disorders and autism. The program allows families to participate remotely, providing flexibility in their involvement. Participants can contribute biological samples, such as blood or saliva, which are linked to their data to enhance understanding of the impact of specific genetic changes. The collected information is anonymized and shared with qualified researchers to improve clinical care and treatment options.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could lead to improved clinical care and targeted treatments for individuals with genetic conditions linked to autism.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies focusing on genetic variants and neurodevelopmental disorders have shown promise, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Subjects of any age with a genetic condition on our eligible list along with their biological family members. Current list can be found at: https://www.simonssearchlight.org/research/what-we-study/ * Must be fluent in English or a supported language. Current supported languages are Spanish, French, and Dutch, with more to come. * Able to register and participate through our online platform, which can be accessed through any device able to connect to the internet. * Able and willing to provide consent. Exclusion Criteria: -Some genetic changes that we study have regions or variants that are not eligible for our research. This is determined during our laboratory review that is completed by trained and certified genetic counselors. These specific ineligible regions or variants can change frequently.
Where it's running
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Boston Children's Hospital
Boston, Massachusetts, United States Recruiting -
Geisinger Health System
Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Cora Taylor, PhD — Geisinger Clinic
- Study coordinator: Simons Searchlight Study Coordinator
- Email: coordinator@SimonsSearchlight.org
- Phone: 855-329-5638
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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TAP-GRIN: L‑serine for GRIN-related neurodevelopmental disorders
This trial will test whether oral L‑serine helps children and young adults (ages 2–30) who have GRIN-related neurodevelopmental disorders caused by loss-of-function variants.
-
Natural history study of STXBP1 and SYNGAP1 related disorders
This study is trying to learn more about STXBP1 and SYNGAP1 related disorders by collecting information from participants over five years to help improve future treatments.
-
Collection of bio-specimens from patients with RASopathies
This study is collecting samples from people with RASopathies to help researchers learn more about these rare genetic disorders and how they affect the body.
-
Remote feasibility test of phenylbutyrate for SLC6A1-related disorders
This study tests a fully remote treatment approach using phenylbutyrate for people with SLC6A1-related disorders to see if a site-less trial is doable and safe.
-
Natural history tracking of MEF2C-related and other developmental and epileptic encephalopathies
This project will collect medical, seizure, and developmental information over time from children and adults with MEF2C-related DEE and from people with other genetic DEEs to help prepare for future treatments.
-
Elsunersen treatment for infants with early-onset SCN2A-related epileptic encephalopathy
This trial tests whether elsunersen can reduce seizures and is safe in infants and young children with early-onset SCN2A-related developmental and epileptic encephalopathy who have gain-of-function variants.
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.