Understanding the natural history of Best Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy
Official title: Natural History Study in Retinitis Pigmentosa Caused by Mutations in the BEST1 Gene
Run by Columbia University · NCT05809635 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how Best Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy changes over time in people with the condition to help find better treatments in the future.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 52 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Columbia University Academic / other |
| Locations | 3 sites (New York, New York and 2 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | March 30, 2021 |
| Main results expected | May 31, 2026 |
| Study ends | May 31, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | July 30, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT05809635 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include individuals diagnosed with BEST1-associated VMD who can commit to multiple follow-up visits.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with systemic conditions that prevent them from undergoing the necessary exams 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 establish the natural history of Best Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy (VMD) caused by mutations in the BEST1 gene. It will involve participants diagnosed with BEST1-associated VMD, who will undergo a series of follow-up visits over three years. The study seeks to identify sensitive measures of disease progression and assess the suitability of untreated eyes as controls for future clinical trials. By documenting the progression of retinal degeneration, the study will provide valuable insights for developing new treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance understanding of disease progression and improve future treatment strategies for patients with Best Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy.
How similar studies have gone: While this study focuses on the natural history of a specific condition, similar observational studies have successfully informed treatment approaches in other retinal diseases.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Ability to provide informed consent * Diagnosis of BEST1-associated VMD by study physician, who are trained retinal specialists in the university clinic Must be able to commit to 4 follow-up study visits (3 years) Exclusion Criteria: * Systemic condition that prevents the participant from undergoing the exams
Where it's running
-
Columbia University Irving Medical Center
New York, New York, United States Recruiting -
Eberhard Karls University Tubingen
Tübingen, Germany Recruiting -
Institut de la Vision/Centre de maladies rares du Centre Hospitalier National Ophtalmologique des Quinze-Vingts
Paris, France Not yet recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Stephen H Tsang, MD, PhD — Columbia University
- Study coordinator: Stephen H Tsang, MD, PhD
- Email: sht2@cumc.columbia.edu
- Phone: 212-342-1186
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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.