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Exploring the Role of Neuroactive Steroids in Tourette Syndrome

Who can join

Ages 8 to 12 · All sexes · Healthy volunteers welcome

Inclusion Criteria:

* Diagnostic criteria of TS for cases (and lack of any tic disorders for controls)
* Age between 8 and 12 years old (this age range is to ensure that TS participants can perform the tic suppression task)
* confirmation of sexual development by parent and/or self-reported Tanner stage of pubic hair development.

Exclusion Criteria:

* major psychiatric disorders such as a psychotic disorder, autism spectrum disorder, conduct disorder, and substance use disorder;
* other neurological disorders;
* clinically significant endocrinological disorders;
* use of therapies that can modify hormonal profile;
* pharmacotherapies that may change stress sensitivity, such as antidepressants and anxiolytics.

About the study

Tourette syndrome (TS) is a disabling neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by motor and phonic tics. The studies proposed in this application will explore the endocrine mechanisms underlying two of the least well-understood biological characteristics of TS, namely its marked male predominance and stress susceptibility. In particular, our exploratory studies will characterize the steroid profile in TS-affected boys and girls to identify novel potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for this disorder.

What is being tested

• Tic suppression task (behavioral)

Sponsor: University of Utah · Participants: 120 · Started: May 15, 2023

Contact the study team

• Marco Bortolato, MD PhD · Phone: 8015873352
• Michael Himle, PhD · Phone: 8015817529

Official record on ClinicalTrials.gov — NCT05281445

Locations in the U.S.

From ClinicalTrials.gov, data retrieved Oct 7, 2026. Each study sets its own eligibility; the study team decides who can join.