Controlling calcium signaling in cilia to understand heart development
Optogenetic regulation of intra-ciliary calcium signaling in cardiac situs development
['FUNDING_R01'] · MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL · NIH-10879149
This study is looking at how tiny hair-like structures called cilia help shape the heart and body during early development, using zebrafish to learn more about heart problems that can happen before birth.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10879149 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how calcium signaling in cilia affects the development of the heart and body symmetry during embryonic growth. By using advanced techniques like optogenetics and in vivo microscopy, researchers aim to manipulate calcium levels in cilia to observe their impact on left-right body patterning. The study focuses on zebrafish as a model organism to explore the mechanisms behind congenital heart diseases and other related defects. Through this work, the researchers hope to uncover new insights into the role of cilia in heart development and potential therapeutic targets for related conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with congenital heart diseases or those with a family history of such conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with heart conditions unrelated to ciliary defects or those who do not have congenital heart diseases may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating congenital heart defects.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of cilia in development, but this specific approach using optogenetics is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: YUAN, SHIAULOU — MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL
- Study coordinator: YUAN, SHIAULOU
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.