Neurobiological Mechanisms in Autism
4/17/2008
The Center for Autism and Related Disorders at the Kennedy Krieger Institute is recruiting toddlers under age 3 for participation in a research study that looks at biological mechanisms in autism spectrum disorders. Your child does not need to have an autism spectrum disorder to participate. The study will involve: 1) at least one play-based assessment measuring your child’s communication and social skills (approximately 2 hours)
2) a small blood sample (about a teaspoon) from your child around the time of the assessment, taken by a pediatric phlebotomist at our center and analyzed for neurotrophins and neuropeptides
3) forms and questionnaires completed (approximately 30 min – 1 hour) before each assessment, with questions about your child’s development and digestive health.
There are no direct medical benefits for your child, and no financial compensation. Your participation would advance understanding of early development, developmental disorders, and their biological mechanisms.
If your are interested in participating, or would like to learn more about the study, please call our research hotline at 1-877-850-3372 and leave a message stating your interest in the “Neurobiology Study.” Alternatively, you may e-mail Julie Finelli at finelli@kennedykrieger.org. Thank you for your interest, and we look forward to hearing from you!