Understanding the genetic causes of biliary atresia

Coordinating Center- Mapping Disease Pathways for Biliary Atresia

Observational University of Pittsburgh · NCT03273049

This study is trying to find out the genetic causes of biliary atresia by collecting DNA samples from babies with the condition and their families to see what might lead to this serious liver problem.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment1100 (estimated)
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Pittsburgh Academic / other
Locations1 site (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania)
Trial IDNCT03273049 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This project evaluates the developmental and genetic basis of biliary atresia, a leading cause of liver failure in newborns. It aims to differentiate between isolated and syndromic forms of the disease by analyzing genetic susceptibility and environmental influences. The study will involve collecting DNA samples from 1100 biliary atresia patients and their families to identify candidate genes associated with the condition. The findings may provide insights into the mechanisms behind biliary atresia and its related birth defects.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals diagnosed with biliary atresia who are receiving or are about to receive a liver transplant.

Not a fit: Patients who are not diagnosed with biliary atresia or those under state care will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and potential new treatments for biliary atresia.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies on biliary atresia, this approach focusing on genetic pathways is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* living individuals who were diagnosed with Biliary Atresia and received or are about to receive a liver transplant from multiple participating centers (Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Kings College Hospital, Children's Hospital of Birmingham, and Hospital Sírio-Libanês).

Exclusion Criteria:

* No child participant in the care of the state will be enrolled, nor will patients in the care of temporary or informal guardians be enrolled

Where this trial is running

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

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.
Conditions Biliary Atresia
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.