Velocardiofacial (VCFS; 22q11.2; DiGeorge) Syndrome Study

Study Summary

Velocardiofacial syndrome, also known as 22q11.2 syndrome or DiGeorge syndrome, has been associated with many features such as a cleft palate, heart defects, and learning, speech and feeding problems. It is caused by the absence of a number of genes on chromosome 22, but the mechanism by which this inborn abnormality causes the clinical problems is not known. In this study by the National Institute of Mental Health and the Office of Rare Diseases, we are recruiting participants with 22q11.2 syndrome to come for a three-day stay to our main campus in Bethesda, MD, to participate in a study in which we will investigate the genetic makeup of their cells together with several studies of brain function with advanced research imaging. The goal of this study is to understand how the genes missing in 22q11.2 syndrome are related to the increased occurrence of psychiatric problems, such as psychosis, in this syndrome. Participants must be 18-50 years of age, have some high school education and not currently be taking antipsychotic medication. Travel costs to Bethesda for participants and an accompanying person will be paid, and participants are reimbursed for their time in participating in the study. A blood draw is required. All research procedures have been designated as "minimal risk" procedures. ...