Over the years, Kennedy Krieger’s scientists and researchers have made crucial medical discoveries that have led to innovative treatments and improved patient care for individuals with disorders of the brain, spinal cord and musculoskeletal system.

To learn more about research studies currently recruiting participants, click on the categories below:

ADHD Studies

Executive Functions in Reading

This study is currently recruiting

Study Name: The Role of Executive Functions in Reading and Reading Remediation

Description: Individuals with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often have difficulty with executive functions. Executive functions (EF) is an umbrella term for cognitive abilities (e.g., working memory, speed of processing, inhibition, shifting, etc.) that aim to monitor and optimize the acquisition and processing of information. EF difficulties may impact reading fluency and comprehension. For example, if a child is easily distracted and unable to maintain their attention to the text, they may read more slowly and have difficulty comprehending the story. Given their difficulties with EF, children with ADHD are at risk for developing RD and are less likely to see improvements in reading fluency using tradition reading interventions. In this study, we offer children effected by ADHD and reading difficulties (RD) an online reading intervention program focused on reading skills and executive functions

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #00207805

Principal Investigator: Keri Rosch and Tzipi Horowitz-Kraus

Eligible Age Range: 8 years, 0 months and 12 years, 11 months

Gender: All

Diagnosis:  Must have a diagnosis of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)

Contact Information: Jenny Fotang, Fotang@kennedykrieger.org, 443-923-9263

Study Keywords:  Reading study, ADHD, ADD

Study Flyer

Understanding Motor Movement in Children With and Without ADHD

This study is currently recruiting

Study Name: Anomalous Motor System Physiology in ADHD: Biomarker Validation and Modeling Domains of Function

Description: Diagnosing Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) largely relies on subjective rating scales that neglect physiological differences between children with and without ADHD. The goal of this study is to identify and validate brain-based physiological biomarkers that can be used like measurements of ADHD and help improve treatment.

This study requires 2 or 3 full day visits, from about 8:45am-3:45pm, to the Kennedy Krieger Institute, 716 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD. During the research visit, participants will complete an IQ assessment, motor assessments, computer games, and two 2-hour transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) sessions. Participants with ADHD will also receive either a placebo or methylphenidate before one of the TMS sessions.

Participants will receive a check 4-6 weeks after their last research visit in the amount of $50 per day. Parents will receive an evaluation summary of their child's performance on the IQ assessment. This is no cost for participating in the study.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #: IRB00251063

Principal Investigator: Stewart Mostofsky

Eligible Age Range:  8 - 12 years

Gender: All

Diagnosis:  Children between the ages of 8-12 years old are eligible to participate. Children with and without an ADHD diagnoses are eligible. Children with a history of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), traumatic brain injury, and/or developmental delays may not be eligible to participate.

Contact Information:  Alyssa DeRonda, deronda@kennedykrieger.org, 443-923-9258

Study Keywords:  ADHD, typically developing

 

Autism Studies

AMSA Research Study for Children Between 12 and 16 Months

This study is currently recruiting

Description: Interested in receiving free developmental feedback for your child? Our AMSA research study is currently enrolling toddlers between the ages of 12 and 16 months. Through this study, we hope to improve ways to identify children who may benefit most from early intervention. Participation is 100% virtual and requires no in-person visits.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB# 00316818

Principal Investigator: Dr. Rachel Reetzke

Gender: All

Age: 12-16 months old

Diagnosis: All

Contact information: Reach@KennedyKrieger.org or 443-923-7892

Click here to view study flyer

 

Developing New Diagnostic Tools for Autism

This study is currently recruiting

Study Name:  Computerized Assessment of Motor Imitation (CAMI): Advancing the Validity, Scalability and Neurophysiology of a Promising Phenotypic Biomarker for Autism Spectrum Disorder

Description: This research study investigates a new method of identifying biomarkers of Autism known as the Computerized Assessment of Motor Imitation (CAMI). The CAMI method uses 2D and 3D motion-capture cameras to identify and quantify motor imitation deficits. We are recruiting girls and boys with and without Autism. This process includes an eligibility screening over the phone, a diagnostic interview, computer games, paper & pencil tasks, and a dance imitation game using 2D and 3D motion-capture cameras. The study requires two half-day visits to the East Baltimore campus. For your participation, you will receive $25 per visit.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #: IRB00269589

Principal Investigator: Keri Rosch

Eligible Age Range: 6 - 12 years

Gender: All

Diagnosis:  Children between the ages of 6 -12 years old are eligible to participate. Children with and without an ASD diagnoses are eligible.

Contact Information:  Contact: Natalie Alessi, Alessi@kennedykrieger.org, 443-923-9254

Study Keywords:  autism, ASD, typically developing

 

Developing New Diagnostic Tools for Autism – Research Opportunity for Adults With and Without Autism Ages 18-40 Years Old

This study is currently recruiting

Study Name:  Computerized Assessment of Motor Imitation (CAMI): Advancing the Validity, Scalability and Neurophysiology of a Promising Phenotypic Biomarker for Autism Spectrum Disorder

Description: This research study investigates a new method of identifying biomarkers of Autism known as the Computerized Assessment of Motor Imitation (CAMI). The CAMI method uses 2D and 3D motion-capture cameras to identify and quantify motor imitation deficits. We are recruiting girls and boys with and without Autism. This process includes an eligibility screening over the phone, a diagnostic interview, computer games, paper & pencil tasks, and a dance imitation game using 2D and 3D motion-capture cameras. The study requires two half-day visits to the East Baltimore campus. For your participation, you will receive $25 per visit.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #: IRB00269589

Principal Investigator: Keri Rosch

Eligible Age Range: 18 - 40 years

Gender: All

Diagnosis:  Adults with and without an ASD diagnoses are eligible.

Contact Information:  Contact: Natalie Alessi, Alessi@kennedykrieger.org, 443-923-9254

The Early Assessment of Language Markers in Infant Siblings Study

This study is currently recruiting.

Study Name: Do you have a baby under 6 months old?

Description: Researchers at Kennedy Krieger Institute are studying how infants learn language early in life. By learning more about your child's development, we hope to improve ways to identify children who may benefit most from early intervention.

This study includes: 

  • Developmental Assessment s
  • Hearing screening
  • Non-invasive EEG
  • Questionnaires about you and your child

...when your baby is 6 and 12 months

If eligible, families will receive:

  • $45 after completed assessments
  • Developmental feedback
  • Referral for a formal clinical evaluation if concerns are identified during research assessments
Eligibility & Criteria

IRB#NA_00038069

Principal Investigators: Dr. Rebecca LandaDr. Rachel Reetzke

Sponsor: Brain and Behavior Research Foundation

Gender: All

Age: under 6 months

Diagnosis: N/A

Contact information: (877) 850-3372 | Reach@KennedyKrieger.org

Study keywords: Autism Spectrum Disorder

Click here to view study flyer

Participants Needed for Autism Study

This study is now recruiting

Description: We are recruiting children ages 8 – 12 to participate in a research study to learn if there are differences between the brain’s connections of children with and without autism spectrum disorders (ASDs).

Participants will receive a $25.00 gift certificate.

Eligibility & Criteria

Eligible Age Range: Children ages 8 – 12

Gender: All

Diagnosis: With and without autism spectrum disorders

Contact Information: Cinzia Boi at Boicinzia@KennedyKrieger.org or 443-923-4137.

Click here to view study flyer


Social Communication Intervention for Toddlers with Autism Spectrum Disorder

This study is currently recruiting

Study Name: Do you have a child 18 to 33 months old with autism spectrum disorder?

Description: Researchers at Kennedy Krieger Institute are studying whether there are differences between in-person and virtually delivered social communication intervention for toddlers with autism spectrum disorder.

This study includes: 

  • Questionnaires about your child and you
  • Developmental assessments
  • Random assignment to either virtual or in-person intervention sessions
  • No significant risks associated with participation

If eligible, families will receive:

  • Intervention for 12 weeks
  • Information about your child's development
  • $50 after study completion
Eligibility & Criteria

IRB# 00279093

Principal Investigator: Dr. Rebecca Landa

Co-Investigator: Dr. Rachel Reetzke

Sponsor: Department of Defense

Gender: All

Age: 18 to 33 months

Diagnosis: Autism Spectrum Disorder

Contact information: (877) 850-3372 | Reach@KennedyKrieger.org

Click here to view study flyer

Bipolar Disorder

The Balance Study

This study is currently recruiting

Description:  Bipolar depression can change the way a child or teen interacts with the world around them. If you or your child have bipolar depression, we are inviting you to take part in the Balance Study for children and teens, aged 10 to 17 years of age, who have been struggling with bipolar depression. The purpose of this study is to evaluate an investigational drug for bipolar depression in children and teens. The Balance Study will enroll about 380 children and teens with bipolar depression at participating study centers throughout North America and Europe.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #: IRB00281389

Principal Investigator: Bradley Grant, DO

Eligible Age Range:  10 - 17 years

Gender: All

Diagnosis: Have a diagnosis of bipolar disorder and are currently experiencing an episode of depression (depressed mood, loss of interest of pleasure, suicidal thoughts or behavior, difficulty falling asleep, loss of energy, difficulty concentrating) 

Contact Information: Call the Clinical Trials Unit at Kennedy Krieger Institute at 443-923-3850

Click here to view study flyer.

Caregivers

To explore how individual members of the family are affected by caregiver burden when providing care for a child with special needs.

This study is currently recruiting

Description: The outcome of this study would provide targeted counseling approaches and respite for family members of children with special needs based on identified areas of burden.

Eligibility & Criteria

JHU IRB #00284523

Principal Investigator: Dr. Tamar Rodney

Eligible Age Range:  Adults over 18yrs old who have a family member (child under 18yrs) with special needs. Individuals who are able to independently consent to participation.

Gender: All

Contact Information: Dr. Tamar Rodney, TRodney1@JH.EDU 410-955-3961

Click here to view study flyer

Cerebral Palsy

Research Opportunity for Children and Adults with Cerebral Palsy and/or Caregivers

This study is currently recruiting

Study name: Children and adults with cerebral palsy (CP) and/or their caregivers are needed to participate in a research study.

Description: This research is being done to find risk factors for chronic pain in people with cerebral palsy (CP).  We are also looking at the effects of pain on function, independence and quality of life in people with CP. People will be asked to complete online questionnaires at your convenience.

Participants will be emailed links to online questionnaires that will take 30 – 60 minutes to complete. The questions will be about medical diagnoses, quality of life and other factors that might influence pain.  Participants will receive $10 for completing all questionnaires.

Eligibility & Criteria

RPN: #IRB 00181801

Principal Investigator: Eric Chin, MD

Eligible Age Range:  Ages 8 and up

Contact Information: CPpainStudy@KennedyKrieger.org

Click here to view study flyer

Clinical Trials

A Randomized Study of BPN14770 in Male Adolescents (Aged 12 to < 18 Years) With Fragile X Syndrome

This study is currently recruiting

Description: This is a 2-part study, with each part having a unique set of objectives for male adolescents aged 12 to < 18 years with fragile X syndrome (FXS). Part 1 is an open-label, single-dose, pharmacokinetics (PK) assessment of BPN14770 25 mg and 50 mg, while Part 2 is double-blind (DB) and randomized between two treatment groups (Study Drug and Placebo).

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #: 000312157

Principal Investigator: Dejan Budimirovic, MD

Eligible Age Range: 12-18 years of ager

Gender: All

Diagnosis: Fragile X Syndrome
 


Assessment of Potential for Chronic Liver Injury in Participants Treated With Epidiolex (Cannabidiol) Oral Solution

This study is currently recruiting

Description:  This study will monitor for potential chronic liver injury and liver fibrosis, in participants treated with cannabidiol oral solution.

Eligibility & Criteria

Eligible Age Range: 1 year and older

Gender: All

Diagnosis: Lennox Gastaut Syndrome, Dravet Syndrome, Tuberous Sclerosis Complex

Visit ClinicalTrials.gov to learn more.


The Balance Study

This study is currently recruiting

Description:  Bipolar depression can change the way a child or teen interacts with the world around them. If you or your child have bipolar depression, we are inviting you to take part in the Balance Study for children and teens, aged 10 to 17 years of age, who have been struggling with bipolar depression. The purpose of this study is to evaluate an investigational drug for bipolar depression in children and teens. The Balance Study will enroll about 380 children and teens with bipolar depression at participating study centers throughout North America and Europe.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #: IRB00281389

Principal Investigator: Bradley Grant, DO

Eligible Age Range:  10 - 17 years

Gender: All

Diagnosis: Have a diagnosis of bipolar disorder and are currently experiencing an episode of depression (depressed mood, loss of interest of pleasure, suicidal thoughts or behavior, difficulty falling asleep, loss of energy, difficulty concentrating) 

Contact Information: Call the Clinical Trials Unit at Kennedy Krieger Institute at 443-923-3850

Click here to view study flyer.


Does Your Child Have Epilepsy

This study is currently recruiting

Description: This is a clinical research study of a medication that may treat both anxiety and epilepsy. The study will be for 16 weeks with 11 study visits.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #: 00282248

Principal Investigator: Jay Salpekar, MD

Eligible Age Range: Ages 6 to 17

Diagnosis: Children and adolescents with seizures who often are nervous or afraid.

Contact Information: Call the Clinical Trials Unit at Kennedy Krieger Institute at 443-923-3850 or email ResearchTrials@KennedyKrieger.org

Click here to view study flyer.


Explore our Fragile X Syndrome Clinical Research Trial

This study is currently recruiting

Description: The behavioral issues associated with a Fragile X diagnosis can create daily challenges for your child.  Learn more about a clinical trial evaluating investigational topical cannabidiol (CBD) gel to see if it helps improve Fragile X-related behavioral issues.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #:00281916

Principal Investigator: Dejan B. Budimirovic, MD

Eligible Age Range: Children between the ages of 3 and 17

Gender: All

Diagnosis: Diagnosed via genetic testing, with Fragile X syndrome

Contact Information: Call the Clinical Trials Unit at Kennedy Krieger Institute at 443-923-3850.

Click here to view study flyer.


Forward-March Fragile X Study

This study is currently recruiting

Description: FORWARD-MARCH is the next step following a highly successful research study called FORWARD (Fragile X Online Registry With Accessible Research Database) that was started in 2012. The FORWARD study created the largest database of information on fragile X syndrome (FXS) in the United States. Data from the FORWARD study is being used by researchers to learn about the lives of people with FXS, including medication use, behaviors, and development over time, and share findings with other researchers and clinicians.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #:00337864

Principal Investigator: Dejan B. Budimirovic, MD

Eligible Age Range: Individuals born between 2003 and 2017

Gender: All

Diagnosis: Fragile X Syndrome

There is no cost to participate in the study. Patients who take part will receive all study-related visits, tests, and investigational drug from a dedicated medical team at no cost. No health insurance is required. 

Contact Information: Call the Clinical Trials Unit at Kennedy Krieger Institute at 443-923-3850.

Click here to view study flyer.


LIFE-DSR

This study is currently recruiting

Description:  The Longitudinal Investigation for the Enhancement of Down Syndrome Research (LIFE-DSR) is a multi-year, coordinated research study by medical and academic professionals to track and analyze the medical and physical data of 270 adults with Down syndrome. Because LIFE-DSR is an “observational and natural history” study, it isn’t testing the impact or effectiveness of a certain medication or therapy. Rather, LIFE-DSR “observes” people as they are by recording medical, physical, and behavioral data points, like: height, weight, blood/ plasma samples, key behaviors, sleeping patterns, and blood pressure. Researchers will use the information collected from all study participants, to better understand the clinical profile of people with Down syndrome.

Learning more about the physiology of people with Down syndrome gives researchers better insight into the connection between Down syndrome and Alzheimer’s disease. LIFE-DSR aims to address the questions of why the rate of Down syndrome-related Alzheimer’s disease is so high, and what therapies and treatments can be developed to prevent it.

The people with Down syndrome who take part in LIFE-DSR are known as “participants,” and their caregivers/family members are called “study partners.” All study participants are
attached to a specialized clinical “site” located in different cities across the U.S., and develop an ongoing relationship with the clinical team and coordinators at their site through visits
every 16 months. Individuals 25 years and older can consider joining the study.

We welcome new LIFE-DSR participants, and we hope you will consider signing up! LIFE-DSR depends on volunteers from the community who want to help researchers learn more about Down syndrome.

Scientists want to learn more about how adults with Down syndrome (DS) change as they age. They particularly want to develop tools to measure the changes that are associated with Alzheimer’s disease for people with Down syndrome. Scientists experienced in research are conducting the study, along with participating doctors, and the LuMind IDSC Foundation.

People who choose to participate in the LIFE-DSR study can expect:

  1. Three or more visits to your clinic site over two years. At the site, you will meet with your team and the study doctor. You will have a physical exam, including a blood draw.
  2. You will be asked to have a conversation called a “cognitive assessment,” and it will help the researchers measure things that can’t be measured with a scale or a tape measure, like memory, language, and the ability to recognize objects.
  3. Depending on which site you are connected to, you may be asked to participate in additional tests, such as a PET scan of your brain, a collection of spinal fluid, or a discussion of how you can set goals to work on skills or overcome challenges that are important to you.
  4. You and your study partner will learn about measurements and tests available at the site you are connected to. You will have the opportunity to ask questions before you agree to participate. You and your study partner will “give consent” before you join the study.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #: IRB00208497

Principal Investigator: Dr. George Capone

Eligible Age Range:  25 years and older

Gender: All

Diagnosis:  Down syndrome

Contact Information:  Clinical Trials Unit, ResearchTrials@KennedyKrieger.org443-923-3850


Epidiolex® For the Treatment Of Anxiety Comorbidity In Refractory Pediatric Epilepsy (EAPE)

This study is currently recruiting

Description:  This research study titled, Epidiolex® For the Treatment Of Anxiety Comorbidity In Refractory Pediatric Epilepsy (EAPE), is being conducted by Dr. Jay Salpekar to evaluate if the drug FDA approved drug, Epidiolex®, helps control anxiety and mood symptoms associated with recurrent seizures in addition to seizure control. The length of the study is 4 months and consists of 11 visits; some are remote and some are onsite.

If you or a family member have any questions or are interested in learning more about the study please contact the study staff by replying to this notice or by contacting the staff directly with the information below.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #: IRB00282248

Principal Investigator: Dr. Jay Salpekar

Eligible Age Range:  6 - 17 years

Gender: All

Diagnosis:  Anxiety, Anxiety Disorder, Epilepsy, Seizures

Contact Information:  Clinical Trials Unit, ResearchTrials@KennedyKrieger.org443-923-3850


Perinatal Arterial Stroke: A Multi-site RCT of Intensive Infant Rehabilitation (I-ACQUIRE)

This study is currently recruiting

Description:  Bipolar depression can change the way a child or teen interacts with the world around them. If you or your child have bipolar depression, we are inviting you to take part in the Balance Study for children and teens, aged 10 to 17 years of age, who have been struggling with bipolar depression. The purpose of this study is to evaluate an investigational drug for bipolar depression in children and teens. The Balance Study will enroll about 380 children and teens with bipolar depression at participating study centers throughout North America and Europe.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #: IRB00219451

Principal Investigator: Dr. Joan Carney

Eligible Age Range:  8 months - 36 months

Gender: All

Diagnosis: Perinatal Arterial Ischemic Stroke (PAIS)  

Contact Information:  Clinical Trials Unit, ResearchTrials@KennedyKrieger.org443-923-3850

Cornelia de Lange

Cornelia de Lange Behavior Study

This study is currently recruiting

Description: Does your child with CdLS display problem behavior? Some children with Cornelia de Lange syndrome engage in behaviors that are harmful to themselves (e.g., head banging, head hitting, self-biting), are harmful to others (e.g., hitting, kicking), or are harmful to the environment (e.g., ripping/breaking/tearing things, banging on surfaces, kicking objects). Sometimes these problem behaviors negatively impact children or their families to the point that treatment is needed. Children with CdLS, who are between the ages of 3 to 15 years old, and who exhibit these types of problem behaviors are needed for a research study. Parents will be asked to complete questionnaires about their child’s behavior, and behavioral assessment and treatment of the problem behaviors will be provided at no charge to the family. Families will be asked to attend 2 full-day clinic visits and 1 half-day clinic visit at Kennedy Krieger Institute. Families will also participate in phone follow-up calls for 3 months after treatment. Families will receive $150 for their participation.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB# 00223332

Principal Investigator:  Patricia F. Kurtz, PhD

Gender: All

Age:  3 – 15 years of age

Diagnosis:  Cornelia d Lange syndrome with behaviors that are harmful to themselves, harmful to the environment or harmful to others.

Contact Information: John Michael Falligant, PhD at 443-923-9512

Epilepsy

Does Your Child Have Epilepsy

This study is currently recruiting

Description: This is a clinical research study of a medication that may treat both anxiety and epilepsy. The study will be for 16 weeks with 11 study visits.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #: 00282248

Principal Investigator: Jay Salpekar, MD

Eligible Age Range: Ages 6 to 17

Diagnosis: Children and adolescents with seizures who often are nervous or afraid.

Contact Information: Call the Clinical Trials Unit at Kennedy Krieger Institute at 443-923-3850 or email ResearchTrials@KennedyKrieger.org

Click here to view study flyer.

Fragile X Syndrome

Explore our Fragile X Syndrome Clinical Research Trial

This study is currently recruiting

Description: The behavioral issues associated with a Fragile X diagnosis can create daily challenges for your child.  Learn more about a clinical trial evaluating investigational topical cannabidiol (CBD) gel to see if it helps improve Fragile X-related behavioral issues.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #:00281916

Principal Investigator: Dejan B. Budimirovic, MD

Eligible Age Range: Children between the ages of 3 and 17

Gender: All

Diagnosis: Diagnosed via genetic testing, with Fragile X syndrome

Contact Information: Call the Clinical Trials Unit at Kennedy Krieger Institute at 443-923-3850.

Click here to view study flyer.

Forward-March Fragile X Study

This study is currently recruiting

Description: FORWARD-MARCH is the next step following a highly successful research study called FORWARD (Fragile X Online Registry With Accessible Research Database) that was started in 2012. The FORWARD study created the largest database of information on fragile X syndrome (FXS) in the United States. Data from the FORWARD study is being used by researchers to learn about the lives of people with FXS, including medication use, behaviors, and development over time, and share findings with other researchers and clinicians.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #:00337864

Principal Investigator: Dejan B. Budimirovic, MD

Eligible Age Range: Individuals born between 2003 and 2017

Gender: All

Diagnosis: Fragile X Syndrome

There is no cost to participate in the study. Patients who take part will receive all study-related visits, tests, and investigational drug from a dedicated medical team at no cost. No health insurance is required. 

Contact Information: Call the Clinical Trials Unit at Kennedy Krieger Institute at 443-923-3850.

Click here to view study flyer.

Learning Disorder Studies

Computerized Reading Intervention Research Study

This study is currently recruiting

Study Name: The Role of Executive Functions in Reading and Reading Remediation

Description: We are recruiting children who are 8-12 years old with and without a reading disability to examine the effects of a computerized reading remediation program.

Participation will include 4.5 hours of cognitive testing (3 hours of remote virtual testing, 1.5 hours of in-person testing) and a 1-hr magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of your child’s brain. Once this initial testing is complete, participants will complete either a reading or mathematics on-line intervention program. The intervention program requires 20-30 minutes of training three (3) times a week over an 8-week period.  Once the training program is complete, participants will repeat another 4.5 hours of cognitive testing and a 1-hr MRI scan to examine changes in cognitive performance and brain activity. Participants who complete the mathematics program will have the opportunity to complete the reading intervention program at the end of their study participation. Participants will be compensations for their participation in this study.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB # IRB00207805

Principal Investigator: Keri Rosch

Co-Principal Investigator: Horowitz-Kraus Tzipi

Eligible Age Range:  8 – 12 years

Gender: All

Diagnosis:  Are typically developing OR have a history of language or learning difficulties

Contact Information: Jenny Fotang, Fotang@kennedykrieger.org, 443-923-9263

Study Keywords:  Reading study, dyslexia

 

Leukodystrophies

Have you been diagnosed with Cerebral X-linked Adrenoleukodystrophy (cALD)

This study is currently recruiting

Description: Learn more about MT-3-01 study, the clinical study that is assessing the efficacy and safety of leriglitazone on the progression of cerebral X-linked Adrenoleukodystrophy (cALD).

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB # : 00382750

Principal Investigator: Dr. Eric Mallack

Eligible Age Range:18 years of age and older

Gender: Male

Diagnosis: Genetic confirmation of X-ALD and have a progressive cALD

Contact Information: Jordan Goodman, Study Coordinator at goodmanj@KennedyKrieger.org or 443-923-2769.

View research flyer

Pregnancy and Infancy

The HEALthy Brain and Child Development (HBCD) Study

This study is actively recruiting

Description: The HEALthy Brain and Child Development Study (HBCD) is a large, long-term study of early brain and child development, funded by 12 offices of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Johns Hopkins University/Kennedy Krieger Institute is one of the 25 study sites across the United States. We are asking families in Maryland and across the United States to join our study and hope you will too! We will follow you and your baby from pregnancy through early childhood. We want to learn how your baby grows and develops. And because every person and family is different, we want to understand how the brain develops. We want to know how your baby is affected by his or her exposure to substances and other environmental conditions during pregnancy and after birth. To learn about this we will collect information during pregnancy and through early childhood, including:

  • Pictures of the baby's brain using MRI
  • Growth measurements like height and weight
  • Samples from mom and baby, like urine, and saliva, and maternal blood
  • Medical and family information
  • Information about the home, feelings, and development

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB # : 802055

Principal Investigator: Heather Volk, Andy Satin & James Pekar

Eligible Age Range: Individuals in the 2nd or 3rd trimester of pregnancy OR who have recently given birth and their children

Gender: All

Diagnosis:  Individuals in the 2nd or 3rd trimester of pregnancy OR who have recently given birth and their children

Contact:  B’More HBCD, 615 N Wolfe St, W2508, Baltimore, MD 21205; HBCD@JH.edu

Keywords: child development, early brain development, pregnancy, early childhood, MRI

View research flyer

 

Sickle Cell Disease Studies

Recruiting children with sickle cell disease under 5 years of age.

This study is actively recruiting

Description: Researchers at the Kennedy Krieger Institute and the Johns Hopkins Hospital are looking for volunteers to participate in a research study on neurodevelopment in young children with sickle cell disease.

To participate in the study, your child must:

  • Be under 5 years of age
  • Have a diagnosis of sickle cell disease
  • Be willing to have a neurodevelopmental evaluation.

This study involves 3 study visits involving:

  • History and neurological examination
  • Neuropsychological testing
  • MRI of the brain
  • Blood sample completed at one of the visits above

After the 3 visits above, this study may require annual visits until age 5, including neurological exam and blood sample collection. At their final visit at age 5, this study will require neurological examination, neuropsychological testing, MRI of the brain, and blood sample collection.  Participations will receive compensation .

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB # : :IRB00096434

Principal Investigator: Eboni Lance, MD, PhD

Eligible Age Range: under age 5

Gender: All

Diagnosis:  Sickle Cell

Contact:  Eboni Lance at 443-248-6714 or email SickleCell@KennedyKrieger.org

Keywords: Sickle Cell

View research flyer

 

Are you interested in a study on hearing loss and dizziness?

This study is actively recruiting

Description: Researchers at the Kennedy Krieger Institute and the Johns Hopkins Hospital are looking for volunteers to participate in a research study on hearing loss and dizziness.

To participate in the study, you must:

  • Be between the ages of 18 to 80 years
  • May or may not have a diagnosis of sickle cell disease

This study involves:

  • Short survey
  • Neurological examination
  • Hearing and dizziness testing

Compensation provided.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB # IRB00222251

Principal Investigator: Eboni Lance, MD, PhD

Eligible Age Range: 18 – 80 years

Gender: All

Diagnosis:  Sickle Cell

Contact:  Eboni Lance at 443-248-6714 or email SickleCell@KennedyKrieger.org

Click here to view study flyer

 

Schizophrenia Studies

Are You/Your Child Still Struggling with Schizophrenia?

This study is actively recruiting.

Description: Join a Clinical Research Study. For adolescents 12 to 16 years old diagnosed with schizophrenia

Seven visits conveniently scheduled at Kennedy Krieger Institute over 10 weeks

Each visit lasts from 2 to 3 hours

There is compensation for time and travel for each visit

The purpose of the study is to determine if study drug Na-Ben (sodium benzoate), added on to existing treatment, is safe and effective.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB # 00030540

Principal Investigator: Robert Findling, MD, MBS

Study Sponsor: SyneuRX International (Taiwan) Corp.

Eligible Age Range:12 – 16 years  

Gender: All

Diagnosis:  Schizophrenia

Contact:  To learn more, call the Clinical Trials Unit: Kennedy Krieger Institute—(443) 923-3850

Email: ResearchTrials@kennedykrieger.org

Keyword:  schizophrenia

Click here to view study flyer.

 

Social Communication Studies

Online Research Opportunity ages 12 – 36 months

Description: Child development researchers at Kennedy Krieger Institute are studying a new social communication screening tool for children ages 12-36 months.

What is involved?

  • Brief online questionnaire about your family (15 minutes)
  • Online developmental screeners (approximately one hour)
  • Telehealth developmental assessment with you and your child, and feedback with a developmental specialist.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB # : : : NA_00066880

Principal Investigator: Dr. Rebecca Landa

Eligible Age Range:12 – 36 months

Gender: All

Diagnosis:  typically developing

Contact:  For more information, please call (877)-850-3372 or email reach@kennedykrieger.org or follow: https://kennedykrieger.org/VGCR

Keywords: social communication

 

Spinal Cord Injury

Adults with spinal cord injury needed to participate in a 4-week cycling program

This study is currently recruiting

Description: We are looking for adults with spinal cord injury (SCI) who can participate in a 4-week cycling program. Structural and functional MRI scans of the brain and spinal cord will be used to study the effect of the cycling program.

Who: Adults, age 18-99 with ASIA A-D traumatic thoracic injury without lower motor neuron involvement. To participate, you must be at least 6 months out from the injury, and be in satisfactory general health..

What: You will be asked to participate in a 4-week cycling program at the International Center for Spinal Cord Injury (ICSCI). At the beginning of the program, you will be assigned to either a Functional Electric Stimulation (FES) cycling group or a passivecycling group. The 4-week program will consist of a total of 12 cycling sessions (3 times/week, 1 hour/session). On the day of (or on a separate day close to) your 1st, 6th, and 12th cycling visit, you will also receive an ASIA neurological exam, a SCIM functional evaluation, and a structural and functional magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and spinal cord (total of 3 ASIA exams and 3 MRI). During the imaging, we will ask you to lie still in the MRI while we take pictures of your brain and spinal cord. The neurological exam and imaging will last approximately 60 minutes each (120 minutes total). If you have your own FES RT300 cycling bike, you will have an option to cycle at home using televisits. The screening and MRI visits will still be conducted at KKI in person.

Risks: The effects of magnetic fields in an MRI scanner have been extensively studied, and there are no known significant risks with an MRI exam.

Benefits: There is no direct benefit to you from being in this study. This study may benefit others in the future by improving methods for the study of nervous system structure and function. If you complete the study, you will be reimbursed $150 for participation and an additional $60 for the cost of transportation (total of $210; in the form of a check).

Where: The International Center for Spinal Cord Injury at Kennedy Krieger Institute, The Broadway Campus (707 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD). You will have an option to perform the FES cycling in the Maple Lawn Campus (11830 West Market Place, Suite P, Fulton, MD 20759)..

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #: IRB00182576

Principal Investigator: Ann S. Choe, PhD

Eligible Age Range: 18 - 99

Gender: All

Diagnosis:  Spinal cord injury

Contact: Research Coordinator at the International Center for Spinal Cord Injury (443) 923-9235 or ClinicalTrials@SpinalCordRecovery.org

View study flyer here

 

Stomach Studies

What is your stomach saying to your brain?

This study is currently recruiting

Description: Healthy volunteers are needed for a research study on how stomach activity and brain activity are related. Stomach activity is monitored using electrodes placed on the skin of the abdomen; brain activity is monitored using MRI.

Who: Healthy adults, age 18-49.

Where: F.M. Kirby Research Center for Functional Brain Imaging at Kennedy Krieger Institute, 707 N Broadway, Baltimore MD.

When: About one-and-a-half hours on each of two mornings (close together). Before one morning, you will be asked to fast overnight (no food after dinner).

What: You will receive $50 compensation on conclusion of second scan.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #: IRB00243929

Principal Investigator: James Pekar, PhD

Eligible Age Range: 18 - 49

Gender: All

Diagnosis:  Healthy adults

Contact: Email gutbrain@kennedykrieger.org

Keywords:  Healthy adults, stomach

View study flyer here

 

Typically Developing Children

Computerized Reading Intervention Research Study

This study is currently recruiting

Study Name: The Role of Executive Functions in Reading and Reading Remediation

Description: We are recruiting children who are 8-12 years old with and without a reading disability to examine the effects of a computerized reading remediation program.

Participation will include 4.5 hours of cognitive testing (3 hours of remote virtual testing, 1.5 hours of in-person testing) and a 1-hr magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of your child’s brain. Once this initial testing is complete, participants will complete either a reading or mathematics on-line intervention program. The intervention program requires 20-30 minutes of training three (3) times a week over an 8-week period.  Once the training program is complete, participants will repeat another 4.5 hours of cognitive testing and a 1-hr MRI scan to examine changes in cognitive performance and brain activity. Participants who complete the mathematics program will have the opportunity to complete the reading intervention program at the end of their study participation. Participants will be compensations for their participation in this study.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB # IRB00207805

Principal Investigator: Keri Rosch

Eligible Age Range:  8 – 12 years

Gender: All

Diagnosis:  Are typically developing OR have a history of language or learning difficulties

Contact Information: Jenny Fotang, Fotang@kennedykrieger.org, 443-923-9263

Study Keywords:  Reading study, dyslexia

 

Developing New Diagnostic Tools for Autism

This study is currently recruiting

Study Name:  Computerized Assessment of Motor Imitation (CAMI): Advancing the Validity, Scalability and Neurophysiology of a Promising Phenotypic Biomarker for Autism Spectrum Disorder

Description: This research study investigates a new method of identifying biomarkers of Autism known as the Computerized Assessment of Motor Imitation (CAMI). The CAMI method uses 2D and 3D motion-capture cameras to identify and quantify motor imitation deficits. We are recruiting girls and boys with and without Autism. This process includes an eligibility screening over the phone, a diagnostic interview, computer games, paper & pencil tasks, and a dance imitation game using 2D and 3D motion-capture cameras. The study requires two half-day visits to the East Baltimore campus. For your participation, you will receive $25 per visit.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #: IRB00269589

Principal Investigator: Keri Rosch

Eligible Age Range: 6 - 12 years

Gender: All

Diagnosis:  Children between the ages of 6 -12 years old are eligible to participate. Children with and without an ASD diagnoses are eligible.

Contact Information:  Contact: Natalie Alessi, Alessi@kennedykrieger.org, 443-923-9254

Study Keywords:  autism, ASD, typically developing

 

Online Research Opportunity ages 12 – 36 months

Description: Child development researchers at Kennedy Krieger Institute are studying a new social communication screening tool for children ages 12-36 months.

What is involved?

  • Brief online questionnaire about your family (15 minutes)
  • Online developmental screeners (approximately one hour)
  • Telehealth developmental assessment with you and your child, and feedback with a developmental specialist.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB # : : : NA_00066880

Principal Investigator: Dr. Rebecca Landa

Eligible Age Range:12 – 36 months

Gender: All

Diagnosis:  typically developing

Contact:  For more information, please call (877)-850-3372 or email reach@kennedykrieger.org or follow: https://kennedykrieger.org/VGCR

Keywords: social communication

 

Research Opportunity for Healthy Children or Adults

This study is currently recruiting

Study Name:  Healthy children or adults without neurologic or developmental diagnoses and/or caregivers

Description: This research is being done to find risk factors for chronic pain in people with cerebral palsy (CP).  We are also looking at the effects of pain on function, independence and quality of life in people with CP. People will be asked to complete online questionnaires at your convenience.

Participants will be emailed links to online questionnaires that will take 30 – 60 minutes to complete. The questions will be about medical diagnoses, quality of life and other factors that might influence pain.  Participants will receive $10 for completing all questionnaires.

Eligibility & Criteria

RPN: #IRB 00181801

Principal Investigator: Eric Chin, MD

Eligible Age Range: Ages 8 and up

Contact Information: CPpainStudy@KennedyKrieger.org

Click here to view study flyer.

 

Computerized Reading Intervention Research Study

This study is currently recruiting

Study Name: The Role of Executive Functions in Reading and Reading Remediation

Description: We are recruiting children who are 8-12 years old with and without a reading disability to examine the effects of a computerized reading remediation program.

Participation will include 4.5 hours of cognitive testing (3 hours of remote virtual testing, 1.5 hours of in-person testing) and a 1-hr magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of your child’s brain. Once this initial testing is complete, participants will complete either a reading or mathematics on-line intervention program. The intervention program requires 20-30 minutes of training three (3) times a week over an 8-week period.  Once the training program is complete, participants will repeat another 4.5 hours of cognitive testing and a 1-hr MRI scan to examine changes in cognitive performance and brain activity. Participants who complete the mathematics program will have the opportunity to complete the reading intervention program at the end of their study participation. Participants will be compensations for their participation in this study.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB # IRB00207805

Principal Investigator: Keri Rosch

Eligible Age Range:  8 – 12 years

Gender: All

Diagnosis:  Are typically developing OR have a history of language or learning difficulties

Contact Information: Jenny Fotang, Fotang@kennedykrieger.org, 443-923-9263

Study Keywords:  Reading study, dyslexia

 

Research Volunteers Needed

This study is actively recruiting

Study Name: Seeking typically developing children (3 to 17 years old) and adults to participate in a research study at Kennedy Krieger Institute and Johns Hopkins Medicine 

Description:  Participate either from home or in the lab in Baltimore, MD

At Home Option: you will need a computer connected to the internet and you will be asked to complete a game on a website.

In Lab Options (choose as many as you would like): computer-based tasks, treadmill walking tasks, virtual reality tasks, reaching tasks with a robot, and an MRI scan where we take pictures of your brain while you look at pictures, move your arm, or squeeze a device.

There are no medical benefits or significant risks to you for joining this research study. Participation will take 1-5 hours (with multiple visits possible). Participants will be compensated for their time. WHO: Children with Tourette Syndrome and typically developing children

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB# 00276939

Principal Investigator: Amy J. Bastian, PhD

Eligible Age Range: Children (ages 3 - 17) and Adults

Diagnosis: Typically Developing

Contact:  For more information or if interested in participating, use the QR code on the flyer or contact the Motion Analysis Lab directly: CFMSrecruitment@KennedyKrieger.org | 443-923-2716

Click here to view study flyer.

 

Typically Developing Participants – Ages 6 - 17

This study is currently recruiting

Description: We are recruiting neurotypical developing children and adolescents to participate in a research study to learn if there are differences between the brain’s structure and its function in children and adolescent without a neurodevelopmental disorder. This is a great opportunity for children and adolescents to participate in computer games, paper & pencil tasks, a Magnetic Resonance Imagining (MRI) scan of their brain and a free IQ test.

Participants can earn up to $50 per day and will receive an IQ report, radiology report and a picture of their brain!

Eligibility & Criteria

Eligible Age Range:  Children ages 6-17

Gender: All

Diagnosis:  Neurotypically developing children

Contact Information: KennedyKrieger.org/CNIR or email CNIR@KennedyKrieger.org

Study Keywords: Typically developing

Click here to view study flyer.