Developmental Stuttering: Population-Based Genetic Discovery

• Research type

  Research Study

• Full title

  Developmental Stuttering: Population-Based Genetic Discovery

• IRAS ID

  271996

• Contact name

  Shelly Jo Kraft

• Contact email

  kraft@wayne.edu

• Sponsor organisation

  Wayne State University

• Duration of Study in the UK

  1 years, 5 months, 31 days

• Research summary

  Developmental stuttering (also known as stammering) features whole and part word repetitions, lengthening and blocking of sounds. Tension and additional movements may be present. Stuttering typically begins between 2-6 years of age in approximately 5-6% of children, although some recent studies suggest the rate is closer to 11%. Most children will stop stuttering spontaneously or with therapy, with 1% of the population stammering at any time. For many, the impact on the ability to communicate and participate are far reaching and the social, emotional and economic consequences can be considerable.
  Little is known about how and why developmental stuttering occurs, although numerous studies suggest a strong genetic influence. While some studies have looked at genetic differences between people who stutter and those who don't within specific families, the genes identified so far have not been significant in the wider population of people who stutter. This leaves the general genetic cause of stuttering still largely unknown.
  This study involves collecting saliva samples from unrelated people who stutter from around the world and represents the largest and most comprehensive genetic analysis of stuttering ever performed. Any individual from 2 - 99+ years of age who currently stutters, or has ever stuttered, is eligible to participate in this study. After consenting to participate, a saliva sample of 0.75-2mL will be collected from each individual (adult, young person or child) who stutters, and a quick questionnaire will be completed. With support from the Michael Palin Centre for Stammering (London, UK) and other locations in the U.S., Ireland, and Australia, this study aims to recruit, sequence and analyse the genetics of 3000 samples from people who stammer, with secondary replication in an additional 1000 cases and 1000 controls.

• REC name

  North of Scotland Research Ethics Committee 2

• REC reference

  24/NS/0040

• Date of REC Opinion

  8 May 2024

• REC opinion

  Further Information Favourable Opinion