Vanderbilt Kennedy Center

Tummy Troubles: MET Tyrosine Kinase and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Last Updated: Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Principal Investigator: Susan G. McGrew, M.D.

Other researchers: Kent Williams, MD, , Evon Lee, PhD ,

Description

Many children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) report tummy troubles that include diarrhea, constipation, cramping, bloating, and sensitivity to certain foods. Recent genetic discoveries show a link between the MET gene and ASDs, and between the MET gene and tummy troubles. We are interested in exploring how this gene is related to these tummy troubles in people with ASDs.

As a part of this study, you and your child may be asked to:

  • Come to Vanderbilt or a satellite Vanderbilt clinic in Franklin and be evaluated by a psychologist ( if your child has an ASD) and gastroenterologist ( if your child has GI problems). This could occur in a single day, or be broken up over a few appointments. Please note that the evaluation by the gastroenterologist is not paid for by this study.
  • Complete questionnaires about your child’s medical history, social behaviors, and nutrition.
  • Donate a sample of your child’s blood for DNA studies.

Participant Criteria

  • Individuals with ASD
  • who are 5 to 17 years old,
  • who do and do not have tummy troubles.

Compensation

$50 (checks mailed to participating family)

Visit Requirements

At least one visit, could vary

Brochure

Download Brochure

Contact Information

Theresa Clem
(615) 343-4855
tummy.troubles@vanderbilt.edu

Want to Participate in this Study?

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