Creating animal models to study human diseases
Disease Modeling Unit
This study is creating special mice and flies that have the same genetic traits as people with certain diseases, so researchers can better understand these conditions and find new ways to help patients, especially those with rare or hard-to-diagnose illnesses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10898627 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The Disease Modeling Unit at Baylor College of Medicine focuses on developing and studying animal models that mimic human diseases. Using advanced genome editing techniques, researchers will create mouse and fly models that reflect specific genetic variants associated with various diseases. These models will help validate the relationship between genetic variants and diseases, uncover disease mechanisms, and test potential treatments. The research aims to translate findings from these models back to improve patient care, particularly for rare and undiagnosed diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults with rare diseases linked to specific genetic variants.
Not a fit: Patients with common diseases not associated with the genetic variants being studied may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for patients with rare genetic diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using animal models to study genetic diseases, making this approach promising.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- Baylor College of Medicine — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Heaney, Jason D. — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Heaney, Jason D.
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.