Contribute to Our Study: Help Save Lives
Identifying Tay-Sachs Disease by Dried Blood Spot
What is Tay-Sachs disease?
Tay-Sachs disease is a rare genetic disorder with a carrier frequency of 1 in 30 in people with Ashkenazi Jewish heritage.1 Tay-Sachs disease can be caught early with State Newborn Screening programs, which help identify affected babies so they may receive early medical intervention to improve their quality of life.
What is the Study?
Scientists in Professor Gelb’s laboratory at the University of Washington and at GelbChem, LLC. have recently developed a simple diagnostic and newborn screening method for Tay-Sachs disease using dried blood spot samples. The results are quick and cost-effective. We are now expanding the method to include Tay-Sachs carrier detection among Ashkenazi population.
We are looking for healthy adults with Ashkenazi Jewish heritage (four grandparents of Ashkenazi Jewish heritage) to participate in this study. Adult carriers of Tay-Sachs disease are also welcome.
Who is Eligible?
Sample Collection Made Easy.
We understand that the idea of collecting a blood sample at home might sound daunting, but rest assured, the process is simple and completely safe. Here's how it works:
2. The Collection Kit.
Once you've completed the survey, we'll mail you a sample collection kit right to your doorstep. Inside, you'll find everything you need for the collection process, including clear and easy-to-follow instructions.
3. At-Home Collection.
Using the materials provided, you'll perform a gentle finger prick to obtain a small blood spot sample. The process is similar to what you might experience when checking your blood sugar levels and is virtually painless. Click here to view a video of the process. All materials you need for the collection process are provided in the Collection Kit.
4. Return Shipping.
After collecting your sample, simply place it in the postage-prepaid package included in the kit and send it back to our laboratory. We've made sure that returning your sample is as convenient as possible, with no costs or hassle.
Your Privacy Matters.
We want to assure you that your privacy and confidentiality are our top priorities. All samples will be treated anonymously, and any identifying personal information provided will be kept strictly confidential. Rest assured that your participation in this study will have no impact on your privacy or healthcare.
Join Us in Making a Difference.
By participating in this volunteer study, you're playing a vital role in the development of a method for easy screening and diagnosis of Tay-Sachs Disease. Together, we can make significant strides towards improving healthcare outcomes for individuals and families affected by this condition.
Questions or Concerns?
If you have any questions or concerns about the study or the sample collection process, please don't hesitate to contact us at contact@gelbchem.com. Our team is here to assist you every step of the way.
[1] Sutton, VR. Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am. 29(2):287-96. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0889-8545(01)00002-x
[2] Kaplan, F. Genet Test. 2(4):271-92. https://doi.org/10.1089/gte.1998.2.271
Thank You!
Thank you for considering participation in our study. Your contribution has the potential to make a meaningful impact on the lives of many families.