View clinical trials related to Single-Gene Defects.
Filter by:This research project aims to utilise recent advances in whole genome sequencing of preimplantation genetic diagnosis embryos to investigate the impact of paternal age on de novo mutation rates in IVF embryos. Embryos that are deemed unsuitable for transfer following preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic/single gene disorders (PGT-M) due to the detection of genetic abnormalities will be utilized for this study. These embryos will undergo re-biopsy, and both the biopsied samples as well as the remaining embryo tissue will be subject to whole genome sequencing. This will allow the assessment of de novo mutation rates based on the paternal age.
The study aims to identify novel monogenic phenotypes from specific pedigrees and discover the underlying causal genetic variant using genetic sequencing (Sanger and/or Next Generation Sequencing - Panel/WES/WGS) methodologies in families across the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The general area of research in which this project has been designed is that of retinal degeneration related to mutations in the ABCR gene, responsible of Stargardt disease/fundus flavimaculatus retinal dystrophy (STD/FF). STG/FF is one of the major causes of vision impairment in the young age. STG/FF originates typically from the dysfunction and loss of cone and rod photoreceptors, developing through a photo-oxidative mechanism. The major disease locus is the central retina, i.e. the macula, whose neurons have the highest density and underlie critical functions such as visual acuity, color vision and contrast sensitivity. There is currently no cure for STG/FF. Recent experimental findings indicate that Saffron, derived from the pistils of Crocus Sativus, may have a role as a retinal neuro-protectant against oxidative damage. The stigmata of Crocus sativus contain biologically high concentrations of chemical compounds including crocin, crocetin, whose multiple C=C bonds provide the antioxidant potential. In addition it is well known that this compound is safe and free of adverse side effects. The aim of this research is to investigate the influence of short-term Saffron supplementation on retinal function in STG/FF patients carrying ABCR mutations. The macular cone-mediated electroretinogram (ERG) in response to high-frequency flicker (focal flicker ERG) will be employed as the main outcome variable. Secondary outcome variable will be the psychophysical cone system recovery after bleaching.