The MED13L Foundation strategic research plan: a roadmap to the future

A strategic research plan (SRP) serves as a compass for the patient advocacy organizations driving the therapeutic options for their rare disorder. The MED13L Foundation commissioned the SRP in 2022 through COMBINEDBrain, a consortium of patient advocacy organizations of rare neurodevelopmental disorders, working toward clinical trial readiness. The MED13L Foundation SRP is an objective evaluation of MED13L literature including clinical and basic science knowledge interwoven with an assessment of preclinical trial readiness tools necessary for achieving therapeutic interventions. Clinical evaluation is conducted through a review of the literature documenting symptoms and variant information for each individual with MED13L syndrome. Data is collated and presented as a summary, providing any unique genotype–phenotype, as applicable. Scientific literature is reviewed in the same manner, identifying areas of opportunity to expand knowledge of MED13L syndrome. Researchers and clinicians responsible for growing the understanding of MED13L syndrome are interviewed and information is shared to create an open and collaborative network. Preclinical trial readiness tools are largely framed through Food and Drug Administration guidelines for the development of therapeutics from bench to bedside. Finally, the Foundation infrastructure and community engagement are assessed providing areas of strengths and opportunities to elevate the bond formed to drive patient-centered research forward. Completed, this SRP becomes a living resource for the MED13L Foundation to set priorities, share with researchers and clinicians, and provide direction to reach their organizational goals, including therapies for their community affected by MED13L syndrome.