About the Study
Mothers of children with spina bifida have important genetic clues in their saliva that are critical to helping scientists better understand spina bifida. We created an educational video that gives a short overview of our study, the Spina Bifida Genetics Research Project. The video explains the research we are doing on spina bifida, contains actual footage from our labs and shows some of the instruments we use for the research. We have attempted to explain the science in general terms so that everyone can learn something. We hope you enjoy!
Watch our video about the Spina Bifida Genetics Research Project!
More about the Spina Bifida Genetics Research Project
This study continues our research to identify genetic factors that influence spina bifida (myelomeningocele). In this phase of the project, we are analyzing the genes involved in how our body utilizes the vitamin folic acid. One potential outcome of this research could be a genetic test to identify women at-risk for spina bifida. Once developed, this genetic test could identify women who are at high risk based on their genetic profile. These women, identified as high-risk based on their genetics, would be counseled under the care of a physician to take a 4mg/day dose of folic acid – the same recommendation given to women at high-risk based on history (prior affected pregnancy or spina bifida). You can learn about the science underlying this study here.
