Research

Mitochondrial Disease Study

Longitudinal Study of Mitochondrial Hepatopathies

Protocol Description

This study investigates rare liver diseases called mitochondrial hepatopathies that occur in infants, children and young adults. These diseases are the result of problems with mitochondria, which are found in every cell and are involved in the production of energy. Mitochondrial hepatopathies are inherited liver diseases that may cause problems in other organs including the muscles, heart, brain and kidneys. Through this study, the Childhood Liver Disease Research and Education Network (ChiLDREN), a network of 15 clinical sites in the United States and Canada, will collect and share medical data from participants to help researchers better understand the causes and effects of these diseases over time.

Eligibility Criteria

Subject to certain exclusion criteria, the study is open to individuals of both genders, from birth through age 18, who have been diagnosed with mitrochondrial hepatopathy.
Boys: Birth through age 18
Girls: Birth through age 18

Requirements
Medical record information and blood and urine samples will be collected for each participant. Sample collection for research purposes will be planned whenever possible to occur at the same time it is being done for routine clinical tests. Children participating will also be assessed for mental, motor and behavioral development. Other tests, such as hearing tests, may be conducted, depending on the arm of the study in which a participant is enrolled.
Visits: At least 1 per year
Duration: Up to 5 years

Status: Open for Enrollment

Source(s) of Support
National Institutes of Health

Additional Information
Childhood Liver Disease Research and Education Network