22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome, Velo-Cardio-Facial Syndrome
Conditions
Keywords
Cognitive remediation, Social Cognition
Brief summary
The goal of this study is to collect preliminary data on the efficacy of a cognitive remediation program in improving the neurocognitive deficits in children with chromosome 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11DS). This study involves a two part approaching including a computerized cognitive remediation program (CCRP, Posit Science, CA) in combination with a Social Cognitive Training (SCT) program. The computer-based training program has shown encouraging results in improving learning deficits in individuals with schizophrenia and we now seek to adapt them to children with 22q11DS, who have unique needs due to their lower IQ and high risk of psychosis in late adolescence and adulthood. The SCT is a small-group intervention program based on cognitive enhancement therapy, which has been shown to improve social cognition and functionality in adults with schizophrenia. A preliminary study will be performed using this two-pronged approach, to establish the feasibility and gather preliminary data on neurocognition before and after the intervention in these children; these data would enable a larger randomized controlled study to assess the efficacy of this approach.
Interventions
BEHAVIORALCognitive remediation program
Subject plays for 30 minutes, 4 times per week, for 12 weeks.
BEHAVIORALSmall group social skills training
Meet once per week for duration of 40 weeks.
Sponsors
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Harvard University
University of Pittsburgh
Duke University
Study design
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Intervention model
PARALLEL
Masking
NONE
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
ALL
Age
11 Years to 17 Years
Healthy volunteers
No
Inclusion criteria
* molecular/cytogenetic confirmation of 22q11DS
Exclusion criteria
* Intelligence Quotient \<60 * diagnosis of psychosis * pregnancy * home location does not permit participation in small groups
Design outcomes
Primary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Change in sustained attention | Baseline and 12 weeks | Sustained attention will be assessed using the Continuous Performance Test. |
| Change in executive function. | Baseline and 12 weeks | — |
| Change in verbal memory. | Baseline and 12 weeks | — |
Secondary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Social skills | 40 weeks | Social skills will be measured using a parental survey called the Social Skills Rating System. |
| Change in brain function and white matter structure. | Baseline and 12 weeks | The study will examine the impact of CCRP upon brain function and white matter structure in children with 22q11DS. |
Countries
United States
Outcome results
None listed