Acute Porphyria Biomarkers for Disease Activity

This translational pilot research is based on preliminary results using animal models. The investigators will collect samples of blood, urine and feces from up to 50 participants with well documented acute porphyrias, at 2 expert sites that are members of the Porphyrias Consortium. Collection and analysis of these samples will be used to assess feasibility of performing such studies in humans with acute porphyrias, recognizing that these disorders are more heterogeneous than reproduced in animal models, and affect individuals who cannot all be studied simultaneously and in large groups. Therefore, we will assess the feasibility of methods for collecting, processing, storing and shipping samples at multiple study sites for later biomarker analysis. Larger and more definitive studies of biomarkers will be designed and implemented based on data and experience from this pilot-feasibility study.