For individuals in the Houston area:
Register in person at the Texas Children's Hospital Autism Center by contacting Andrea Simon, andrea.simon@bcm.edu, (832) 824-3624.
The best way for us to obtain sufficient quantities of DNA for our analysis is through a saliva sample. Saliva samples offer a convenient method for DNA sample collection as compared to other sources of DNA (e.g., tissue collected via a cheek swab, blood). Saliva collection is a common collection method for research ranging from large scientific studies or even a single personalized medicine test.
The value of this study depends on having DNA from the person with autism and DNA from both of his or her biological parents when possible. Having DNA from the biological siblings also increases the quality of genetic analyses that we are able to perform. We are more likely to discover information about an individual’s autism with the participation of the biological parents and biological siblings.
