Landmark Autism Genetic Study Seeking Participants

Families affected by autism can participate in the nation's largest study to uncover important genetic links to the condition by attending an on-site registration and data collection event in Oak Park, Sunday, October 22nd, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Center for Autism Related Disorders (CARD), 6930 Roosevelt Rd. Participants with autism will receive up to $50 upon completion of the study.

The research project, called SPARK (Simons Foundation Powering Autism Research for Knowledge), is working to collect family information and DNA samples from 50,000 individuals with autism and their family members. In Chicago, SPARK has partnered exclusively with Rush University Medical Center.

At the collection events, families with a loved one on the autism spectrum are asked to fill out a short series of online forms sharing demographic, medical and behavior information and complete a DNA test consisting of a simple spit sample or cheek swab. Participants are strongly encouraged to RSVP for the event in advance, however walk-ins are welcome.

To RSVP for the data collection event or for more information, contact Holly Lechniak at SPARK@rush.edu or (312) 563-2765.

If you are unable to attend, please visit www.SPARKforAutism.org/rush to complete the entire study process from home.