Spark Research

SPARK is a national online autism research initiative that connects people who have a professional diagnosis of autism and their biological family members with research opportunities to advance our understanding of autism. SPARK's goal is to not only better understand autism, but also accelerate the development of new treatments and supports. Regis... tration for SPARK can be done entirely online in the convenience of one's home and at no cost. DNA is collected with saliva kits that are shipped directly to participants. Once the SPARK participant's family has returned their saliva samples, participants receive a $50 Amazon.com gift card code. If SPARK researchers identify a gene change that is linked to autism, this information is returned to families at no cost. SPARK also shares individualized reports with families based on their responses to certain surveys. For researchers, SPARK provides a large, well-characterized cohort of genetic, medical and behavioral data. Using the information that SPARK participants share, the study also helps researchers to find participants who are appropriate for their studies. These studies may involve completing an online questionnaire about autism services or visiting a research center for a study on autism and anxiety. SPARK has partnered with 31 clinical sites across the country, as well as autism organizations, service providers, and key influencers to help educate the public about SPARK and to recruit participants. Through these strategic partnerships, SPARK hopes to reach and engage a diverse and large number of individuals and families that are affected by autism.Read More