We invite individuals with symptoms of Werner syndrome to send blood samples and tissue samples to the University of Washington for enrollment in our ongoing research on Werner syndrome and other aging conditions. We are a CLIA certified laboratory and issue a formal written report on the Werner gene sequence and protein analysis. Individuals who meet eligibility crieteria and enroll in our study are given test results free of charge. Ninety percent of individuals with a clinical diagnosis of Werner Syndrome have detectable mutations by this method. The remaining 10% of cases do not have a discernable change at this locus. If a few of these atypical cases, mutations in the LMNA gene have been discovered.
Individuals who have at least a probable diagnosis of Werner are eligible to enroll. Please see diagnostic criteria for eligibility. Please contact us if you have questions about eligibility.
We establish permanent cell lines for DNA extraction and genetic and physiological studies to better understand the Werner gene and protein function. Permanent cell lines are the best way to have a continuous source of DNA for the future without repeated blood draws. Our project includes a repository that shares unidentified samples with other researchers working in this field.
The instructions for sending blood and tissue as well as consent forms are available below. Please contact us before sending samples. We recommend that samples are sent early in the week so they arrive before the weekend. We will pay for the cost of shipping and can provide blood drawing tubes and tissue media upon request.
- Blood Sample Collection Instructions
- Tissue Sample Collection Instructions
- Medical Information Forms
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Consent Forms:
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- English
- French / Français
- German / Deutsch
- Japanese
- Portuguese
- Spanish / Español
- Turkish
- For other languages, please contact Dru Leistritz.