The Belgian Genome Resource to Resolve Rare Diseases (NCT07051213) | Clinical Trial Compass
CompletedNot Applicable
The Belgian Genome Resource to Resolve Rare Diseases
Belgium567 participantsStarted 2021-06-02
Plain-language summary
Whole-exome (WES) or whole-genome sequencing (WGS) are recommended as first- or second-tier molecular tests for patients with developmental disorders (DD), but the clinical utility of WGS continues to be debated. This prospective randomized trial involving all Belgian Human Genetics centers compares the standard of care (SoC) - combining WES and microarray or shallow WGS - with WGS for 567 individuals with unexplained DD. The aim of the project is to pave the way towards diagnostic implementation of WGS for rare DD in Belgium. To reach this aim, (1) technical validation is performed at different genetic centres in Belgium, (2) clinical utility of WGS is explored and (3) the health economic impact is mapped.
Who can participate
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Intellectual disability/Developmental delay (moderate to profound)
* Intellectual disability/Developmental delay (mild to moderate) AND family recurrence AND normal parents
* Intellectual disability/Developmental delay (mild to moderate) AND dysmorphism (≥3 well documented minor signs)
* One major malformation AND dysmorphism (≥3 well documented minor signs)
* Multiple major malformations in 2 or more different organ systems.
Exclusion Criteria:
* Suspicion of an acquired cause, e.g. congenital infection and prenatal toxic exposure
* Prior next-generation sequencing of a gene panel targeting multiple conditions or prior exome analyses
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.