Using genomic sequencing to diagnose birth defects in newborns

Genomic Sequencing and Personalized Treatment for Birth Defects in Neonatal Intensive Care Units

Observational Children's Hospital of Fudan University · NCT02551081

This study is testing if a new DNA testing method can help doctors diagnose birth defects and genetic diseases in newborns faster and more accurately than the usual method.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment2000 (estimated)
AgesN/A to 28 Days
SexAll
SponsorChildren's Hospital of Fudan University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Shanghai, Shanghai Municipality)
Trial IDNCT02551081 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology in diagnosing birth defects and genetic diseases in neonates. By comparing NGS with traditional Sanger sequencing, the study aims to determine if NGS can shorten examination times, improve diagnosis rates, and guide personalized treatment options. The research focuses on neonates in the Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) who present with undiagnosed illnesses or specific genetic concerns. Participants will undergo genetic screening based on their clinical symptoms, with blood samples collected for DNA analysis.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include neonates admitted to NICUs with undiagnosed illnesses or specific genetic anomalies.

Not a fit: Patients who have previously undergone exome or genome sequencing may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to faster and more accurate diagnoses of genetic conditions in newborns, enabling timely and personalized treatment.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies utilizing genomic sequencing for similar purposes have shown promising results, indicating a potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

One of the following criteria required.

1. Neonates admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Units in one of the study hospitals
2. Clinical genetic testing or a genetic consult is ordered
3. Subject has one major structural anomaly or three or more minor anomalies
4. Abnormal laboratory testing suggestive of a genetic disease
5. Abnormal response to standard therapy for a major underlying condition

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Previously performed exome/genome sequencing on patient
2. Any infant in which clinical considerations preclude drawing 1.0 ml of blood
3. Has features pathognomonic for a large chromosomal aberration (Trisomy 13, 18, 21 or other)
4. Parents are unwilling to have genomic reports placed in the medical record or sent to their primary care pediatrician
5. Parents refuse consent

Where this trial is running

Shanghai, Shanghai Municipality

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 Genetic DiseaseMultiple MalformationCongenital Malformation
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.