Perinatal Autism Genetics and Epigenetics Study (NCT07738003)
Perinatal Experience and Epigenetic Change in Autism: Discovering Modifiable Pathways for Intervention
🩺 Plain-English Summary (8th-Grade Level)
The University of Iowa's Center for Disabilities and Development is researching how pregnancy, early childhood experiences, and genetic factors influence child development, with a focus on autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Pregnant women are invited to participate in a study that tracks their pregnancy and child's early development, through simple, at-home activities using a cell phone. Participants complete short questionnaires, join an online interview, and videotape their baby's play after birth. They are also sent a kit to swab their baby's mouth to collect cheek cells for genetic testing. The study will explore whether stress and early social experience lead to genetic changes associated with autism or other developmental conditions.
Who can join: Review the eligibility criteria below.
Location: Center fro Disabilities and Development — Iowa City, Iowa
Age range: 0 Years to 50 Years
🧪 Interventions in This Study
- Change in child's DNA methylation (GENETIC)
- Perinatal stress (BEHAVIORAL)
- Early social experience (BEHAVIORAL)
- Polygenic risk scores for social communication and repetitive behavior (GENETIC)
📋 "Do I Qualify?" — 1-Minute Self Screener
Instant ChecklistFull eligibility criteria are available on the official NIH protocol. View the criteria ↗
📍 All Participating Trial Locations (1 Sites)
- Center fro Disabilities and Development — Iowa City, Iowa
📞 Contact the Study Coordinator
Phone: (319) 356-7140
Email: babysteps@uiowa.edu
Coordinator details come directly from the registered NIH protocol. Confirm the study is still recruiting before traveling.
💰 Cost, Insurance & Patient Rights
- 100% Free Items: The investigational treatment and protocol-required procedures are supplied at zero cost by the sponsor.
- Routine Patient Care: Under federal law (ACA § 2709) and many state statutes, routine care costs are covered during participation.
- Voluntary Participation: You may withdraw at any time without affecting your standard medical care.
Explore by condition: All Autism Disorders and Maternal Stress clinical trials
💡 How to Participate
- Check the checklist above to see if you may qualify.
- Contact the study coordinator using the phone/email above.
- Ask about the visit schedule, what is covered at no cost, and any travel support.
- Confirm with your own doctor before making a decision.