To see if it is the same gene that causes ulcerative colitis.
To study three specific family groups in order to identify the gene/s and understand the relationship - why some families get one disease and not the other, while some families have both diseases.
To establish a 'bank' of DNA from affected families. This 'bank' of DNA will become a national register and resource to assist with further studies.
Who is conducting the project?
Dr Paul Pavli from the Canberra Hospital and the John Curtin School of Medical Research, Canberra, is conducting this research project. Other scientists are also involved in the program.
The project commenced in 1990. The first stage of the project was to find and collect blood samples from suitable families with multiple members diagnosed with Crohn's disease.
Analysis of blood from participating families has commenced.
The second stage is to collect blood samples from two other family groups, ulcerative colitis families and families with a mixture of both conditions.
An explanation of the groups required for the research is provided below.
The collection of multi-affected families will be on-going.
What specific family members are required for the study?
Families where there is more than one member of the family diagnosed with Crohn's disease.
Families where there is more than one member diagnosed with ulcerative colitis.
Families where there is a mixture of ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.
Diagnosed first degree relatives such as, mother, father, brother, sister. If there is a history within the family of having either ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease, such as a close relative or distant relative, the researchers would also wish to know this information.
What is involved if a specific family wishes to participate in the study?
Please download and complete the Australian and New Zealand Family Research Project Application Form available from this site. Feel free to make further copies for other family members. Do not hesitate to telephone and discuss any issues with ACCA on tel: +61 (03) 9726 9008 or fax: +61 (03) 9726 9914.
Send the completed form to: ACCA at P O Box 201, Mooroolbark VIC 3138 Australia
Researchers from the project will then make contact with each family member involved. This takes time, so do not worry if there is a delay.
Arrangements will be made to collect a blood sample from each family member. The amount of blood required and the procedure used is similar to having a regular blood test. There is no cost to you or your family.
Both affected and unaffected family members are needed for the study so that the inheritance of the gene/s involved can be tracked through your family.
Researchers will advise families as to how this collection of blood is to be organised. Arrangements for family members living in a different city or state will also be advised.
There will be no further contact with the family, unless further information is required by the research team.
Individual participants will be notified of the results.
Further information and updates can be found at the ACCA Web site: http://www.acca.net.au
