Central Ohio Registry for Autism

We invite you to be in a research study called the “Central Ohio Registry for Autism (CORA) because your child or another member of your family has been diagnosed with autism, Asperger syndrome, Rett syndrome, or pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS). These conditions are often grouped together and are called autism spectrum disorders (ASDs).

What is the purpose of CORA?
We are starting the Central Ohio Registry for Autism (CORA) to provide opportunities for families in Central Ohio to participate in local and national research studies examining the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of autism spectrum disorders.  As part of this study, we will collect and store medical information and blood samples on individuals with ASDs and their family members.

How can my family participate?
To participate, your child must have a formal diagnosis of an ASD and had basic genetic testing (including chromosome analysis and fragile X testing at a minimum; a full genetics consultation is preferred).  You must be willing to give consent (for you and/or your child), provide information about your medical and family history and/or give us permission to obtain medical records.  Your child and both biological parents (if available) must also agree to donate a small amount of blood.  You may be asked to complete 1 or more psychological tests.

Who will be in this study?
Most families will come from Nationwide Children’s Hospital (Columbus) and Wright Patterson Air Force Base (Dayton). We hope to have about 250 families for a total of about 1250 participants.

Who is doing this research?
This research study is being led by Dr. Gail E. Herman at the Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital located in Columbus, Ohio.  Other doctors, clinicians and scientists involved in the study from Nationwide Children’s and Wright Patterson Medical Center include Drs. Bartlett, Butter, Henninger, McBride, Mulick, Ratliff-Schaub, Vieland, Wynn and Zernzach.  The study coordinator is Elizabeth Varga.

Are there any costs associated with participating?
It will not cost you anything to be in this study.  You will not be paid to be in this study.

Download the CORA Application to mail or fax to us.