Track your baby's development from birth through early childhood

Recruiting

What is this trial?

This is a long-term research study called MARIANNE that watches babies and young children grow from birth to age 6. Researchers want to understand what causes autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disorders by comparing children who have a brother or sister with autism to children without this family history. The study collects information about the baby's development, health, environment, and genes to find early signs and patterns.

Autism affects millions of people worldwide, but doctors don't yet know exactly what causes it or how to spot it early enough to help. When a child has autism, their younger siblings have a higher risk of also being diagnosed with autism. This study aims to find early warning signs in babies at high risk so they can get help sooner and reach their full potential.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you are pregnant (at least 16 weeks along) and at least 18 years old
you have at least one child who is 2 years or older
for the high-risk group: your child has a confirmed diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder
the biological father of the unborn child is also willing to participate (or you are a single mother)
you speak French and can complete study questionnaires
you are able to visit the hospital for follow-up visits

You likely don't qualify if…

you cannot understand French or the study materials
you or the father are under legal protection measures or unable to consent
you are not enrolled in a social security or health insurance system
for the low-risk group: you have a child with autism or other developmental disorders
you live too far from the hospital to attend follow-up appointments

What participation looks like

If you join, you will be asked to share information about your pregnancy, health, family history, and living situation. After your baby is born, you will bring them to the hospital for check-ups at several time points: 3 months, 6 months, 12 months, 24-30 months, 3 years, and 6 years of age. At these visits, a psychologist or child psychiatrist will observe your baby's behavior, communication, and social skills. At the 3-month visit, your baby will be video-recorded for a special movement assessment. Blood samples may also be collected if genetic testing is offered as part of routine care.

Understanding early signs of autism in babies with family history

What is this trial?

Do you qualify?

What participation looks like

Trial locations(1 site)