Krabbe Disease

The purpose of this study is to understand the course of rare genetic disorders that affect the brain. This data is being analyzed to gain a better understanding of the progression of the rare neurodegenerative disorders and the effects of interventions.

The Myelin Disorders Biorepository Project (MDBP) seeks to collect and analyze clinical data and biological samples from leukodystrophy patients worldwide to support ongoing and future research projects. The MDBP is one of the world's largest leukodystrophy biorepositories, having enrolled nearly 2,000 affected individuals since it was launched over a decade ago. Researchers working in the biorepository hope to use these materials to uncover new genetic etiologies for various leukodystrophies, develop biomarkers for use in future clinical trials, and better understand the natural history of these disorders. The knowledge gained from these efforts may help improve the diagnostic tools and treatment options available to patients in the future.

The purpose of this study is to develop a clinical database of individuals diagnosed with Krabbe disease in order to determine which symptoms herald the onset of clinical disease in the various phenotypes of Krabbe disease; to determine whether level of GALC enzyme activity, or a specific genetic mutation predict the clinical course; and to determine which neurodiagnostic tests predict onset and/or severity of the disease.