Understanding the genes behind juvenile myoclonic epilepsy

Plain-English translation of NCT03400371 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated September 2025 · Translation generated June 2026 · How we translate trials

What is this trial?

This research study is looking for the genetic causes of juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME), a common seizure disorder that usually starts in the teenage years. Researchers will compare the DNA of people diagnosed with JME to people without epilepsy to identify which genes are involved. Understanding these genetic differences may help doctors better treat JME and develop new therapies in the future.

Juvenile myoclonic epilepsy affects a large number of people, but doctors still don't fully understand what causes it. Scientists believe multiple genes are involved, and finding them could lead to better treatments tailored to each person's genetics.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you have been diagnosed with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy following standard diagnostic criteria
your seizures started between ages 10 and 25 with early morning jerking movements of your arms
your most recent EEG showed the typical pattern doctors expect to see with this type of epilepsy
you are currently between 10 and 40 years old
you are able to provide informed consent or have a parent/guardian who can

You likely don't qualify if…

your myoclonic jerking started only after taking certain anti-epilepsy medications
your EEG shows focal (localized) abnormalities rather than the generalized pattern typical of JME
you have symptoms suggesting a progressive form of myoclonus epilepsy or focal seizures
you have global learning disabilities or a genetic syndrome affecting your physical features
you are unable to understand and consent to the study yourself

What participation looks like

Participation is straightforward: you will provide one blood sample and give permission for researchers to review your clinical diagnosis information and a copy of your EEG recording. There are no ongoing visits, medications to take, or long-term commitments. The study poses no direct risk or benefit to you personally, but your contribution helps scientists understand what causes JME so they can develop better treatments for others.

AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 1, 2026 · Not medical advice

Trial locations(15 sites)

United States

Mount Sinai-Beth Israel Medical Center, New York, New York

St Luke's Roosevelt Hospital, New York, New York

Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio

Canada

Hospital for Sick Kids, Toronto, Ontario

Czechia

Charles University, Prague