Clinical trial Recruiting at 2 sites Observational

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 typeObservational
SexAll
Enrollment100000 (estimated)
SponsorSimons Searchlight
Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Boston, Massachusetts and 1 other locations)
StatusRecruiting
StartedOctober 2010
Main results expectedOctober 2050
Study endsOctober 2050
Registry record updatedJuly 23, 2026
Trial IDNCT01238250 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

  • Boston Children's Hospital
    Boston, Massachusetts, United States
    Recruiting
  • Geisinger Health System
    Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, United States
    Recruiting

Study contacts

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.