Investigators at Boston Children's Hospital are conducting research in order to better understand the genetic factors which may contribute to epilepsy and related disorders. These findings may help explain the broad spectrum of clinical characteristics and outcomes seen in people with epilepsy.
Many individuals with epilepsy experience seizures which respond well to treatment. Some types of epilepsy, however, are characterized by seizures which begin very early in childhood and are associated with severe intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. These conditions are often difficult to treat. The investigators' research effort is focused on identifying genetic changes (known as "DNA variants") that cause epilepsy. By doing so the investigators hope to improve diagnosis and treatment for this epilepsy. We have two specific aims: 1. Identifying genetic findings in patients with epilepsy and related disorders. 2. Correlating genetic findings with epilepsy phenotypes.
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
5,000
Boston Children's Hospital
Boston, Massachusetts, United States
RECRUITINGIdentify new or existing pathogenic variants through exome and/or whole genome sequencing of individuals with epilepsy.
Use exome and/or whole genome sequencing to identify genetic variants. Detailed clinical information will be collected via medical records and patient questionnaire, as well as biological parents' exome sequencing to classify variants per ACMG guidelines.
Time frame: 10 years
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.