About GRASP

 

Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute (WHRI), Charterhouse Square, Queen Mary University London

Severe short stature can cause physical and psychological disadvantages and can sometimes be associated with other serious morbidities.  Poor growth can be the result of a wide range of diseases but many children (up to 80%) who are referred with short stature have no identifiable cause. It is estimated that about 80% variation in human height is determined by genetic factors and family studies show that gene defects play an important role in short stature. Our research aims to investigate the genetic causes of growth failure.

The Centre for Endocrinology at the William Harvey Research Institute has an established reputation in the management of growth failure in children and a long track record of research into its causes. Our genetic sequencing service and centre for growth research is led by Professor Helen Storr. Over the last 10 years, our group at the WHRI have used a combination of genetic testing modalities. To date our genetic testing has identified a genetic diagnosis in ~65% of referrals. An accurate diagnosis is critical in the management of growth disorders, and we currently receive referrals from many UK centres and from clinicians around the world.

We are happy to receive new referrals for genetic analysis. Genetic testing is offered free of charge. If you are interested in referring a patient to us please see our referral criteria and get in touch to discuss in more detail.

World Map showing the origins of referrals to our GRASP study. Most referrals are from the United Kingdom represented in dark blue. Other referring countries represented in light blue include Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Croatia, Egypt, Germany, Greece, India, Italy, Jordan, Kuwait, Mexico, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Serbia, Slovakia, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey and United Arab Emirates.