NCT05047354 · Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD)
Biochemical and Phenotypical Aspects of Smith-Lemli-Opitz Syndrome and Related Disorders of Cholesterol Metabolism
What this study is about
Background: Smith-Lemli-Opitz Syndrome (SLOS) is a genetic disorder. It can cause birth defects and developmental delays. There is no cure for SLOS or other inherited diseases related to cholesterol production or storage. The data gained in this study may help researchers find ways to measure how well future treatments work.
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Background: Smith-Lemli-Opitz Syndrome (SLOS) is a genetic disorder. It can cause birth defects and developmental delays. There is no cure for SLOS or other inherited diseases related to cholesterol production or storage. The data gained in this study may help researchers find ways to measure how well future treatments work. Objective: To learn more about SLOS and related disorders and how these diseases affect participants and relatives. Eligibility: People of any age who have or are suspected to have SLOS or another inherited disease related to cholesterol production or storage. Relatives are also needed. Design: Participants will be screened with a medical record review. Participants will have visits every 6 to 12 months. They will have a physical exam. They will fill out a survey about their medical and behavioral history. They may have an eye exam. They may have a neurodevelopmental assessment. They may have a hearing test. Their outer and middle ears may be examined. Their ability to speak, understand speech, eat, and swallow may be assessed. They may get X-rays while they chew and swallow. Their functional ability and needs for adaptive devices or braces may be assessed. They may have a lumbar puncture. Photographs may be taken of their face and body. Participants who cannot visit the NIH and relatives will have a virtual visit once a year. They will talk about their medical history and symptoms. They give blood, urine, and skin samples at a lab near their home. They will fill out a survey about their medical and behavioral history. Participation will last for several years.
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
- Males or females of any age with any one of the following:
- Clinical, biochemical, or genetic diagnosis of Smith-Lemli-Opitz Syndrome OR
- Clinical, biochemical, or genetic diagnosis of desmosterolosis, lathosterolosis, CHILD syndrome, X-linked dominant chondrodysplasia type2 or another inborn error of cholesterol synthesis OR
- Clinical suspicion of an inborn error of cholesterol synthesis, metabolism or impaired cholesterol homeostasis. Clinical observations may include, but are not limited to lipid-laden macrophages, abnormal LDL, HDL, total cholesterol, triglycerides, abnormal lipid electrophoresis, lipid storage in other tissues. OR -Biologic parents of affected individuals or known carriers based on previously done genetic testing who are willing and able to provide samples of any or all of the following: blood, urine, a skin biopsy, and/or tissue derived from clinically indicated surgery or autopsy.
Exclusion criteria
- Affected individuals who cannot travel to the NIH because of their medical condition will be excluded from on-site participation. They may participate in the telemedicine or in the biomaterials parts of the study.
- Affected individuals who, in the opinion of the investigator, are unable to comply with the protocol or have medical conditions that would potentially increase the risk of participation will be excluded from on-site participation. They may participate in the telemedicine or in the biomaterials parts of the study.
- Carrier adults who are unable to or unwilling to provide any of the following samples: Blood, urine, skin biopsy sample or tissue derived from clinically indicated surgery or skin biopsy.
- Female participants who are pregnant will be excluded from evaluations requiring sedation, radiation and LP. Total blood draw volumes will be kept at a minimum or if anemia of pregnancy is known, no blood will be taken for research testing.
Where
- Bethesda, Maryland
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 Jul 7, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations