Understanding the genetics of Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy
Official title: Biology of Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy
Run by King's College London · NCT03400371 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is trying to find the genetic causes of Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy by collecting blood samples and health information from people with the condition and comparing it to data from those without epilepsy.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 10 Years to 40 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 1000 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | King's College London Academic / other |
| Locations | 15 sites (New York, New York and 14 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | July 13, 2017 |
| Main results expected | June 30, 2026 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | September 5, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT03400371 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are individuals aged 10-40 years with a diagnosis of Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy and specific EEG characteristics.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with myoclonus only associated with certain medications or those with other forms of epilepsy 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 collect genetic information and clinical data from over 1000 individuals diagnosed with Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy (JME) across the UK, Europe, and North America. Participants will provide blood samples and allow access to their clinical EEG data, which will be compared to anonymized data from 2000 control subjects without epilepsy. The primary goal is to identify the genetic causes of JME, which could lead to improved treatments and earlier detection of the condition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to better treatments and improved outcomes for patients with Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown success in identifying genetic causes of epilepsy, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy in accordance with Consensus criteria * Age of myoclonus onset 10-25 years * Seizures comprising predominant or exclusive early morning myoclonus of upper extremities * EEG interictal generalized spikes and/or polyspike and waves with normal background * Current age 10-40 years Exclusion Criteria: * Myoclonus only associated with carbamazepine or lamotrigine therapy * EEG showing predominant focal interictal epileptiform discharges or abnormal background * Any evidence of progressive or symptomatic myoclonus epilepsy or focal seizures * Global learning disability * Dysmorphic syndrome * Unable to provide informed consent Regrettably, we are currently unable to accept self-referrals to the BIOJUME study.
Where it's running
-
Hospital for Sick Kids
Toronto, Ontario, Canada Recruiting -
Charles University
Prague, Czechia Recruiting -
Danish National Epilepsy Centre
Dianalund, Denmark Recruiting -
Tallinn Children's Hospital
Tallinn, Estonia Recruiting -
University Robert Debré
Paris, France Recruiting -
Commissione Genetica Lega Italiana contro l'Epilepssia
Roma, Italy Recruiting
Show 9 more locations
-
Vestre Viken Health Trust, Oslo
Drammen, Norway Recruiting -
Walton Centre for Neurology and Neurosurgery
Liverpool, United Kingdom Recruiting -
Royal London Hospital
London, United Kingdom Recruiting -
St Thomas' Hospital
London, United Kingdom Recruiting -
King's College Hospital NHS Trust
London, United Kingdom Recruiting -
Swansea University
Swansea, United Kingdom Recruiting -
Mount Sinai-Beth Israel Medical Center
New York, New York, United States Completed -
St Luke's Roosevelt Hospital
New York, New York, United States Completed -
Nationwide Children's Hospital
Columbus, Ohio, United States Completed
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: K Pal, MD PhD — King's College London
- Study coordinator: Deb K Pal, MD PhD
- Email: deb.pal@kcl.ac.uk
- Phone: +442078480608
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
-
JZP926 capsule for Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy: safety and seizure reduction in youths
We’re testing if JZP926 capsule added to usual treatment can reduce myoclonic seizure days in people 10 and older with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy, compared with a placebo.
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.