N-PhenoGENICS: Neurocognitive-Phenome, Genome, Epigenome and Nutriome In Childhood Leukemia Survivors

This is a short battery of tests that has been shown to be predictive of both global and academic impairment in survivors of childhood cancer. All neuro-cognitive tests are done on a same day.

Response inhibition, disturbed by behavioral inattention, will be characterized using our task-based computer program, the Stop Signal Task (SST). All neuro-cognitive tests are done on a same day.

To characterize behavioural aspects, we will administer the standard measure based on parent report. All neuro-cognitive tests are done on a same day.

In the hypothesis-driven genome-wide approach, we will focus on the candidate pathways/regions including (but not limited to): a) Folate/methionine cycle genes and transporters; b) drug metabolizing enzymes and transporters (including families of CYP, SLC and ABC transporters); c) epigenetic modifying factors; and d) neuro-regeneration and tissue repair.

In order to confirm validity of DIVERGT in our sample, and provide the data source for future studies, we will include tests of general cognitive function (WISC-IV). All neuro-cognitive tests are done on a same day.

In order to confirm validity of DIVERGT in our sample, and provide the data source for future studies, we will include tests of general cognitive function: WIAT-III numerical operations and math fluency composite score. All neuro-cognitive tests are done on a same day.

In order to confirm validity of DIVERGT in our sample, and provide the data source for future studies, we will administer Brief Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF), which is designed to assess executive functioning in the home environment. All neuro-cognitive tests are done on a same day.

In order to confirm validity of DIVERGT in our sample, and provide the data source for future studies, we will administer N-Back Task, which is a continuous performance computerized task used to measure aspects of working memory. All neuro-cognitive tests are done on a same day.

Folate and other vitamin intakes vary among individuals. Folic acid fortification in Canadian food product has changed the Canadian population norm of folate status, virtually eliminating folate deficiency status. However, a large inter-individual variation still remains. We will use a Supplement Questionnaire to capture information on all and any supplements that participants may be currently taking.

In order to complement the Supplement Questionnaire (above), we will measure the folate concentration in plasma and red blood cells.

Vitamin B12 and folate pathways interact to maintain biochemical homeostasis. To complement the intake assessment (above), we will measure serum vitamin B12.

Iron status affects cognitive function of children. In addition to the intake assessment (above), we will estimate iron status by measuring hemoglobin and soluble transferrin receptor.

DNA methylation signals represent one of the most stable epigenetic markers, which are known to be affected by environmental factors including drugs and nutrients such as folate. Environmental information conveyed through these factors is translated into gene expression changes mediated by DNA methylation. Although this may contribute to neuro-cognitive deficits of the leukemia survivors, there is no prior data in this regard. Therefore, the aim of this exploratory analysis is to determine if there is any indication that DNA methylation patterns are altered in the participants. DNA will be isolated from each of the blood, buccal swab, and saliva samples and modified using sodium bisulfite, which will then be used to determine DNA methylation patterns.