NCT05031507 · Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD)
Study of Skeletal Disorders
What this study is about
Background: There are 461 conditions that affect the bones (skeletal disorders). Many of these are not well understood and do not have any specific treatments. Researchers want to collect more data about these conditions. Objective: To gain more information about the causes of skeletal disorders and how they progress over time.
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Background: There are 461 conditions that affect the bones (skeletal disorders). Many of these are not well understood and do not have any specific treatments. Researchers want to collect more data about these conditions. Objective: To gain more information about the causes of skeletal disorders and how they progress over time. Eligibility: People ages 2 months or older with known or suspected skeletal disorders or history of pregnancy affected by skeletal findings. Also, healthy family members of affected enrolled participants. Design: Participants can take part in the study either remotely or in person. Those who take part remotely may send in medical records, blood samples, photographs, and other materials. Participants medical records will be reviewed. They may give blood and/or urine samples. They will give blood, saliva, or tissue samples for genetic tests. They may have genetic counseling. Participants ages 2 years and older may have different kinds of imaging scans, such as x-rays. For these scans, they may have to lie still while machines take pictures of their bones. Participants with skeletal disorders who come to the clinic will be examined. They may be asked to stay in the hospital for a few days to take extra tests. They may have a bone or skin biopsy. Participants with skeletal disorders may be photographed to show the effects of their disorder and how it changes over time. For participants with skeletal disorders, their blood or tissue samples may be used to make a special type of stem cell. These cells can be used in the laboratory to make many other types of cells. A large supply of these cells may be created for research. Participation will last indefinitely.
Primary outcome measures
To define or further define genetic etiologies of known and unknown skeletal disorders and create genotype-phenotype correlations when possible
Time frame: ongoing
To define or further define genetic etiologies of known and unknown skeletal disorders and create genotype-phenotype correlations when possible
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Our study population will support the mission and scientific focus of the Unit on Skeletal Genomics. We will focus enrollment of subjects (and their relatives) who fall within one of the below categories:
- Individuals with a skeletal disorder that affects phosphate levels and/or metabolism
- Individuals with a skeletal disorder associated with skeletal overgrowth
- Individuals with a skeletal disorder or history of pregnancy affected by skeletal findings with an unknown molecular basis or unknown etiology In addition to noting the above, to be eligible to participate in this study as an affected subject, an individual must meet all of the following criteria:
- Have a known (via clinical, radiographic or molecular diagnosis) or suspected skeletal disorder, findings associated with or increasing risk for skeletal abnormalities, or history of pregnancy affected by skeletal findings
- State willingness to comply with study procedures and availability for the duration of the study
- Be age 2 months or older
- Be able to understand and sign informed consent document (or availability of a parent/guardian or LAR to provide written consent) In order to be eligible to participate in this study as an unaffected subject, an individual must meet all of the following criteria:
- Be an unaffected family member of an affected enrolled subject
- State willingness to comply with study procedures and availability for the duration of the study
- Be age 2 months or older
- Be able to understand and sign informed consent document (or availability of a parent/guardian)
Exclusion criteria
- The below describe exclusion criteria for an individual to participate as an affected subject:
- An individual who cannot or is unwilling to abide by the procedures of the protocol.
- An individual deemed to not have sufficient signs of or risks for skeletal disease.
- An individual who is pregnant. The below describe exclusion criteria for an individual to participate as an unaffected subject:
- An individual who cannot or is unwilling to abide by the procedures of the protocol.
- An individual that shows signs of skeletal disease.
- An individual who is pregnant.
Where
- Bethesda, Maryland
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jun 24, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations