Could a common mineral ease rare genetic disorder? zinc trial shows promise

NCT ID NCT06412653

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This pilot trial tested whether taking oral zinc every day for 6 months is safe and doable for people with GNAO1 disorders, a rare genetic condition that causes movement problems, seizures, and developmental delays. 13 participants aged 6 months to 30 years took zinc acetate. The study checked if they could stick to the daily dose and monitored side effects through blood tests and check-ins. It's a first step to see if zinc might help manage symptoms.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

zinc acetate dihydrate (oral zinc)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a simple, safe treatment to help manage movement problems and seizures in GNAO1 disorders.

What could go wrong

This is a very small, early pilot study with only 13 participants and no placebo group. It only tests feasibility and safety, not whether zinc actually improves symptoms.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

developmental and epileptic encephalopathy, 17 Dystonia dystonic disorder epilepsy learning disability neurodevelopmental disorder with involuntary movements paroxysmal nonkinesigenic dyskinesia 1

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Children's Hospital, University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne

    Cologne, 50937, Germany