RecruitingNot Applicable

Phonological Constraints on Language Development in Individuals With Williams Syndrome

France130 participantsStarted 2024-07-05

Plain-language summary

Williams syndrome (WS) is a neurodevelopmental disease characterized by mild to moderate intellectual disability and an extremely heterogeneous cognitive profile. Research has outlined two main features of WS: an atypical social behavior associated with surprising language abilities, and a hyperacusis. The purpose of this project is to investigate the relationships between both these abilities, and particularly the role of the hyperacusis on language abilities. The hyperacusis would be crucial in developing language skills: the apparent strength in the verbal domain could rely on Phonological Short Term Memory (PSTM) more in individuals with WS than in typically developing individuals. In addition, the investigators will compare individuals with WS to individuals with Down syndrome (DS): DS is often associated to strong limitations in the PSTM with poor language abilities. To this end, the investigators will use a highly innovative approach including physiological assessments (EEG-NIRS protocol) and questionnaires. The performance of people with WS will be compared to those of participants with DS and TD participants of same DA and cognitive assessments.

Who can participate

Age range

6 Years

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: * For SW and SD: genetic diagnosis and aged between 6- and 17 years old. * For typical participants: any child, adolescent or young adult of the same developmental or chronological age (between 6 and 17 years of age) * adult group (between 20 and 60 years). Exclusion Criteria: * Autistic Associated Disorders, * West syndrome

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.

What they're measuring

questionnaire score of patients with WS caracterisation

Timeframe: 2 years

Trial details

NCT IDNCT07285720

SponsorCentre Hospitalier Universitaire, Amiens

Sponsor typeOTHER

Study typeINTERVENTIONAL

Primary completion2026-07

Contact for this trial

Fabrice Wallois, Pr

33+3 22 08 77 75 fabrice.wallois@u-picardie.fr

View on ClinicalTrials.gov More Williams Syndrome trials