NIH Clinical Research Studies

Protocol Number: 95-M-0150

Active Accrual, Protocols Recruiting New Patients

Title:
A Neurobiological Investigation of Patients with Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders and Their Siblings
Number:
95-M-0150
Summary:
The purpose of this study is to understand the role of genetics in the development of schizophrenia by studying heritable traits in families where at least one member has schizophrenia.

Genetics play a significant role in the development of schizophrenia. This genetic study of schizophrenia seeks to identify genetic markers in families where at least one person has the diagnosis of schizophrenia and is willing to participate in the research.

Eligible family members can contribute a sample of blood for genetic analysis. The member affected with schizophrenia (and if possible their siblings) can engage in a series of procedures that measure and compare neurobiological traits. In addition to the blood draw, participation can include clinical interviews, and a series of non-invasive neurological and neuropsychological procedures. Parental involvement is welcome but is limited to sharing relevant information through questionnaires and interviews and contributing a blood sample for genetic analysis.

Sponsoring Institute:
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Recruitment Detail
Type: Active Accrual Of New Subjects
Gender: Male & Female
Referral Letter Required: No
Population Exclusion(s): None

Eligibility Criteria:
INCLUSION CRITERIA

Patients with schizophrenia and their siblings will be recrruited through families of current or former patients at NIMH, physician referrals, The National Alliance for the Mentally Ill (NAMI), Chestnut Lodge Hospital, St. Elizabeth's Hospital, and other sources both locally and nationally.

Subjects will range in age from 18-65 years.

The affected sib must have evidence of a diagnosis of schizophrenia, schizo-affective disorder, psychosis N.O.S., or schizophreniform disorder as determined by a preliminary screen of records and treating therapists' reports.

EXCLUSION CRITERIA

Persons who are mentally retarded, who suffer from organic brain damage, neurological disease, or have a significant history of alcoholism or substance abuse will not be included in the extensive phenotyping arm.

Special Instructions:
CALL: Any interested family members can call 1-888-674-6464 and discuss their family situation and learn more about the study during a confidential phone call with the Sibling Study Social Worker.

APPLY: If the study seems suitable for interested siblings, the social worker will mail applications to the family.

FURTHER DISCUSSION WITH FAMILY: There is usually a number of questions that arise and family members are encouraged to call to resolve any questions or concerns that arise.

ACCEPTANCE ESTABLISHED: Once the application material are received reviewed by the research team, the intake social worker will let the family know whether or not they are accepted.

FAMILY SCHEDULE: The assigned social worker will work with the family to select the week during the year that is most convenient for their participation.

PRE-PAID TRANSPORTATION & LODGING ARRANGED: Once a participation date is set, then transportation and lodging accommodations are arranged. They are pre-paid by NIMH.

GREETED BY NIMH ASSISTANT: NIMH coordinates the transportation to the NIH Clinical Center, Bethesda, MD., where they will be greeted by an assigned staff member. The staff will review the research again with the siblings and answer any remaining questions they might have before they sign the consent form.

TWO DAYS OF PARTICIPATION: The research assistant will introduce the participants to each researcher who will engage them in the research activities that take place in the outpatient clinic.

TRANSPORTATION HOME: Participants complete testing at approximately 3:00 the second day and return home.

PAYMENT: Once the testing is completed, a payment voucher is filled out. The participants will receive their check in the mail.

Keywords:
Paranoia
Schizophrenic Research
Hallucinations
Delusions
Brain Scans
Negative Symptoms
Symptoms of Schizophrenia
Causes of Schizophrenia
Psychosis and Schizophrenia
Recruitment Keywords:
Schizophrenia
Schizoaffective Disorder
Psychosis
Manic-Depression
Conditions:
Psychotic Disorder
Schizoaffective Disorder
Schizophrenia
Investigational Drug(s):
None
Investigational Device(s):
None

Contacts:
CBDB
Clinical Brain Disorders Branch
NIMH Schizophrenia Research
National Institutes of Health
Building 10
Room MSC 1377
10 Center Drive
Bethesda, Maryland 20892-137
Phone: 1-888-674-6464 or
Phone: (301) 435-8970
Fax: (301) 402-5503
Electronic Address: schizophrenia@intra.nimh.nih.gov

Citations:
Genetic principles and methods in high-risk studies of schizophrenia

Impaired attention, genetics, and the pathology of schizophrenia

Deviant eye tracking in twins discodant for psychosis

Active Accrual, Protocols Recruiting New Patients

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