Reading the genetic code to understand differences in sex development
NCT ID NCT03102554
First seen Jul 22, 2026 · Last updated Jul 23, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study aims to find genetic causes of conditions that affect the development of the gonads and genitals, such as hypospadias and ambiguous genitalia. Researchers will use whole exome sequencing to analyze DNA from 300 children and their families. The study also measures how receiving genetic results affects parents' stress, anxiety, and decision-making.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only, not medical advice or a prediction.
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this research could improve genetic testing and counseling for families affected by differences in sex development.
- What could go wrong
- This is an observational study, not a treatment trial. It may not identify new genetic causes, and the impact on families is uncertain.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Phase
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Not a phased trial
Phase numbers describe drug development. The registry uses this when they do not apply, as it does for trials of devices, procedures or behaviour changes, and for observational studies.
- Participants
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About 300 people
The number the study aims to enrol. It can still change while the study runs.
- Started
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Jan 2018
- Expected to finish
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Dec 2027
An estimate. End dates often move.
- Lead sponsor
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Other sponsor
The registry's catch-all category, for sponsors it does not file as a company, a government agency, or a research network.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
- Ages
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Children (under 18), adults (18 to 64) and older adults (65 and over)
- Sex
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Anyone
- Healthy volunteers
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Not accepted
This study is not open to healthy volunteers. The entry requirements below say who it is open to.
Show the full entry requirements Hide the full entry requirements
Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
Inclusion Criteria: * Genital or gonadal abnormalities as evidenced by physical examination or imaging (including but not limited to hypospadias, microphallus, clitoromegaly, ambiguous genitalia), with no cause identified by standard clinical evaluation Exclusion Criteria: * Inability to provide informed consent
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
How to take part
Only the study team decides who joins. These are the ways to reach them.
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The places running it
1 site. The list below names each one and where it is.
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The official record
The full official record for this study. This one lists no contact details, but it is the first place any would appear.
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A doctor treating you
A doctor who knows your case can contact a study site on your behalf, and can tell you whether this study is worth pursuing at all.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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Boston Children's Hospital
Boston, Massachusetts, 02115, United States
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- New study seeks best pain relief for kids after hypospadias surgery