PAGES - Perinatal Autism Genetics and Epigenetics Study
Privacy Policy: PAGES - Perinatal Autism Genetics and Epigenetics Study
We collect mobile phone numbers for research communication purposes only. Phone numbers are used to send study-related text messages such as surveys, reminders, and updates. Message frequency may vary. Message and data rates may apply. Participants may opt out at any time by replying STOP. We do not share or sell mobile phone numbers or SMS consent data to third parties for marketing or promotional purposes.
Terms and Conditions:
BabySteps - PAGES Study
By providing your phone number, you agree to receive text messages related to this research study, including survey links, reminders, and study updates. Message frequency may vary throughout our study. Message and data rates may apply. Carriers are not liable for any delayed or undelivered messages Reply STOP to opt out or HELP for help.
You can contact us at any time at 319-356-7140 or at our Email Babysteps@uiowa.edu
Scientific Overview
This prospective longitudinal study examines how prenatal and postnatal experiences influence:
- Epigenetic modifications in 30 ASD-associated loci (including OXTR)
- Social communication development trajectories
- Gene-environment interactions in neurodiversity
Power & Design:
We are looking to recruit 7,200 pregnant women
- Multi-level modeling for longitudinal data
- Structural equation models testing DNA methylation mediation
Methodology Highlights
Digital Phenotyping
MyCap-BabySteps App:
Weekly 5-min surveys (stress, mood, parenting)
Monthly video-recorded parent-child interactions
Automated developmental screenings (M-CHAT-R, SWYC)
Biospecimen Collection
Buccal Swabs:
Collected at birth (home kit), 18-27mo, and 30mo (clinic)
Analyzing:
Genome-wide methylation (Infinium EPIC array)
Epigenetic age acceleration (Horvath clock)
Deep Phenotyping
Clinical Assessments:
ADOS-2 for autism diagnosis
LENA natural language analysis
SRS-2 social responsiveness measures
For Participants
Who Can Join?
✅ Pregnant women (6-24 weeks gestation)
✅ Age 18-50 living in the United States
✅ English-speaking
What's Involved?
10 min/week on surveys via app
Monthly 5-min video uploads
Optional clinic visits at UIowa
Collect of cheek cell swab samples
Benefits
$100 gift card drawings (8 winners every 6 months)!
Free developmental screening and feedback!
Free Morph video of your child!
