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RESEARCH Amy Hogan is the Cerebral Palsy Society’s Researcher and Member Support Advisor. in all genes or a panel of known CP-related genes. • Results: May take many months. Sometimes they provide a clear answer; other times, they add to research but don’t immediately change care. • Feedback: There are different ways for families to get information about their testing. This is generally explained before the study or clinical trial begins by specialist counsellors. Not all families will be offered testing in individual studies, but the availability of tests is becoming more common as information, awareness, and advocacy grow. The New Zealand context The Liggins Institute, in collaboration with Te Toka Tumai Starship Children’s and Auckland City Hospital and the New Zealand Cerebral Palsy Register are conducting a study using DNA sequencing to improve understanding of the genetics of CP in Aotearoa New Zealand. The study aims to identify genetic changes that increase the risk of CP in individuals who live with it. The research team wants to understand if knowing the genetic diagnosis can improve the quality of life for children and families living with CP. The study will be open to people living with CP and their families. Taking part Participants will meet with a genetic counsellor or clinical geneticist who will explain the study and obtain their consent to take part. Your information will be reviewed by the project team to confirm if the study is right for you. If you are eligible, you will be asked for the following: • Consent for review of your clinical record • Consent to be registered on the NZ Cerebral Palsy Register and to have your genetic data stored • Your (or your child’s) past medical history • Two blood samples collected for genome sequencing • To discuss the results with a genetic counsellor and/or geneticist. For more information on this study, email – CPgenes@auckland.ac.nz While genetics won’t replace therapy, inclusion or day-to-day support, it can offer powerful new tools for understanding and managing CP. For families in Aotearoa New Zealand, this is a starting point, and being part of this global research effort helps ensure that these advances can be adopted locally as evidence grows. Genetics is an emerging but important part of CP research, and testing can provide answers, guide care, and connect families with others who share similar experiences. The (very) long-term vision is more personalised and precise care for every person with CP, alongside strong therapeutic and community support. This article has been edited for space. To read the full version go to www.tinyurl.com/3jae9399 The research teamwants to understand if knowing the genetic diagnosis can improve the quality of life for children and families living with CP. MARCH 2026 THE REVIEW | 17