Galveston Bay Recovery Study
Genetic Studies: Collection of Saliva Samples
We will be collecting saliva samples for genetic studies. Saliva will be used as a source of deoxyribonucleic acid, or DNA. We will use the DNA in the laboratory to try to identify genetic risk factors for Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other traits we will learn about in this research. We will also use the saliva samples to study hormones.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is DNA for and what are you going to do with it?
A. DNA is the genetic material - information coded in DNA influences many traits that are passed on from one generation to the next. We are going to look at differences between people to see whether certain forms of genes differ in frequency between people who develop PTSD, or other related traits, and people who don't. If they do differ, that will tell us that that gene may be influencing risk for PTSD.
Q. So what?
A. Once we figure out what genes influence someone's risk for a trait, like PTSD, we will be able to understand the biology of that trait better, by looking at what the genes do. That can lead to better basic understanding, but could also lead to developing better treatments.
Q. Who will see my DNA and personal information?
A. No one except members of the research team will be allowed to see any of your personal information or your DNA. Your privacy is our top priority.
Q. Do I have to provide saliva in order to be part of the Galveston Bay Recovery Study?
A. Ideally, we would like to get saliva samples from all of the study participants. However, this is voluntary and you may choose to continue with the interview portion of the study and not send a saliva sample in the kit that is mailed to you. You consent to this portion of the study by mailing in the saliva sample in the provided kit.
Q. Will this cost me anything?
A. There is no cost to you or to your insurance for analyzing the saliva samples. In fact, you will be paid $10 for your participation in this portion of the study. This will be sent to you when we have received your saliva samples and the questionnaire which is included in the kit.
Q. Who will see the results of these tests?
A. The research team will be the only ones who can see the information. Your samples have a unique ID code with no personal information attached to it. The research team knows that it is important to keep your records private and will make every reasonable effort to protect your information.
If you have questions about any of your rights as a research study participant, you may contact the University of Michigan Health Sciences Institutional Review Board:
540 East Liberty Street, Suite 202, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Phone: (734) 936-0933 FAX: (734) 998-9171
irbhsbs@umich.edu
Please identify the study with the ID # HUM 00019324.