Protocol Number: 97-HG-0192

Title:

Genetic Studies in the Amish and Mennonites

Number:

97-HG-0192

Summary:

The purposes of this study are to identify the genes responsible for several inherited disorders commonly seen in the Amish and Mennonite populations and learn more about the natural history (medical problems that develop over time) of these disorders. In addition, researchers will establish a computer database containing Amish genealogies, derived largely from the community's extensive records of births, marriages, deaths, etc., that will help construct pedigrees (family trees) for genetic study.

The Amish and Mennonite peoples have a high rate of intermarriage within their individual communities, with a resulting high incidence of inherited disorders. Many of these disorders, such as cartilage-hair hypoplasia, Ellis-van Creveld syndrome, and others, are rarely seen outside these communities. New research using state-of-the-art methodologies in genetics will add to current knowledge about the causes and symptoms of these disorders that will eventually aid in their diagnosis and medical management.

Patients with inherited disorders that occur frequently in the Amish and Mennonite populations and their family members may be eligible for this study. Individuals from both within and outside these communities may enroll.

Participants will be evaluated with a review of their medical records and their personal and family medical history and a brief physical examination. A small tissue sample will be collected for genetic studies. This will be either a blood sample (3 teaspoons from adults and 1 to 3 teaspoons from children, depending on their size) or a mouth swab (cells removed from inside the cheek by gentle brushing). Some participants may undergo additional procedures, such as diagnostic X-rays, brain scans, echocardiogram (heart ultrasound) or other studies.

If genetic testing shows a gene change (mutation), the participant will be notified to that effect in writing and offered counseling in their home regarding the test results and their implications.

Sponsoring Institute:

National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI)

Recruitment Detail

Type: Participants currently recruited/enrolled

Gender: Male & Female

Referral Letter Required: No

Population Exclusion(s): None

Eligibility Criteria:

INCLUSION CRITERIA:

Subjects are divided into two groups:

Group A:

Patients and their families with known or suspected Mendelian or complex traits, who will be enrolled in the molecular genetics and phenotypic characterization study.

Informed consent will be obtained from each of these subjects.

Group B:

Those individuals who are listed in the Fisher Family History and multiple other genealogy books will be included in the AGD database.

Special Instructions:

Currently Not Provided

Keywords:

Rare Diseases

Consanguinity

Recruitment Keyword(s):

None

Condition(s):

Genetic Disease

Investigational Drug(s):

None

Investigational Device(s):

None

Intervention(s):

None

Supporting Site:

National Human Genome Research Institute

Contact(s):

Patient Recruitment and Public Liaison Office
Building 61
10 Cloister Court
Bethesda, Maryland 20892-4754
Toll Free: 1-800-411-1222
TTY: 301-594-9774 (local),1-866-411-1010 (toll free)
Fax: 301-480-9793

Electronic Mail:prpl@mail.cc.nih.gov

Citation(s):

Mutation of a gene encoding a putative chaperonin causes mckusick-kaufman syndrome

Mutations in a new gene in ellis-van creveld syndrome and weyers acrodental dysostosis

Towards a complete North American Anabaptist genealogy: A systematic approach to merging partiallyoverlapping genealogy resources

• Questions about participating in a study, please contact the Patient Recruitment and Public Liaison Office, CC.
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National Institutes of Health Clinical Center Bethesda, Maryland 20892. Last update: 01/30/2009