Worldwide Collection and Study of Leukodystrophy Patients and Healthy Controls to Improve Diagnosis and Care

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are collecting and analyzing clinical information and biological samples from people worldwide who have leukodystrophies, a group of genetic white matter brain disorders. The study aims to improve understanding of these diseases, find new genetic causes, develop biomarkers, and track the natural history of leukodystrophies to support future research and treatment development. This project is one of the largest biorepositories for leukodystrophy patients, with nearly 2,000 participants enrolled over more than ten years. Participants include individuals with suspected or confirmed leukodystrophies or related genetic white matter disorders, as well as healthy controls. The study involves collecting clinical data, standardized assessments, and biological samples to achieve multiple goals, such as defining new patient groups, evaluating next-generation genetic testing, understanding disease mechanisms, and following patients care and outcomes over time. Consent and assent are required for participation, and participants may be contacted for future studies. During the study, researchers gather clinical information, imaging data, and biological samples to track disease progression and care over a period of up to ten years from enrollment. The main outcome is to identify new homogeneous patient groups with unclassified leukodystrophies. Secondary outcomes include evaluating genetic testing methods, understanding disease biology, and maintaining contact with participants for ongoing research. Participation involves providing data and samples and completing assessments to help advance diagnosis and treatment for leukodystrophy patients globally.

The Myelin Disorders Biorepository Project