The Family Studies Research Center at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine is conducting a genetic research study of autism and related disorders (e.g., Aspergers Syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorder).  They are working with centers for autism research and treatment, in order to reach out to families across the United States who might be interested in participating with them.  Nationwide, they plan to study 600 families with multiple cases of autism or related disorders. 

                The major goal of the project is to identify a gene, or set of genes, that underlie autism and related disorders.  Research suggests that certain types of disorders, such as autism, have a very strong genetic component.  By studying families with two or more cases of autism, or a related disorder, researchers can identify genetic factors that may pass from one generation to the next and predispose some family members to spectrum disorders.

                As researchers, we share the hope for many families affected by autism that future generations will not have to confront this debilitating disorder.  It will take both researchers and families to realize this goal.  Your participation will help scientists an doctors to better understand the causes of autism and related disorders, to that more effective treatments, strategies for prevention, and possibly a cure can be developed.

What does participation involve and who can participate?

                This study involves in-person interviews, an interactive observation with the children involving toys, book and other activities, and a blood sample.  At your convenience, a trained member of the research team will meet with you either in your home or at their offices.  Daytime, evening and weekend appointments are available.  Families in which two or more relatives have autism or a related disorder can participate in this study.

                Families are not compensated for their participation, but will be reimbursed for any out-of-pocket expenses.

                If you have questions, want to learn more about our program, or want to participate, please contact Lauren Kryzak at 718.584.9000, x6961 or email Lauren.Kryzak@mssm.edu .  You can also visit us on the web at:  www.mssm.edu/psychiatry/famstud.shtml.

We are particularly trying to reach families of children with Autism who may have younger siblings between 12 and 23 months old.  We have three connected studies, an NICHD study of "Social Orienting in Siblings of Children with ASD", a NAAR study of "Early Screening for Autism in Children under 24 months", and "EEG power and growth in joint attention in ASD children and their siblings" that all need subjects from this population.  Families do receive $50 savings bonds for each of the two visits that constitute participation in the NAAR study. Families with siblings who are 12 to 18 months old are eligible for the NICHD study, which involves 6 visits over 2 years and offers a total of $450 dollars in savings bonds. Families receive $25 dollars for each of four visits in the EEG study.