NIH-funded research R21 grant

Exploring genetic causes of congenital hydrocephalus

Official title: Understanding the mechanisms of congenital hydrocephalus using genomic sequencing approaches

Funded at University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-10789333 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at congenital hydrocephalus, a condition where fluid builds up in the brain, to find out if certain genes play a role in it, which could help doctors better understand and treat kids with this condition.

More Hydrocephalus research and trials

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Birmingham, United States)
Project startSeptember 11, 2023
Project endAugust 31, 2025
Funding year2023
Award (this year)$392,855
NIH project number1R21NS135321-01
Project IDNIH-10789333 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with congenital hydrocephalus, particularly those with unexplained cases.

Less likely to help

Patients with congenital hydrocephalus caused solely by known extrinsic factors, such as infections or hemorrhage, may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates congenital hydrocephalus, a condition where cerebrospinal fluid accumulates in the brain, leading to various health issues. The team will use advanced genomic sequencing techniques to identify genetic variations that may contribute to this condition, aiming to improve understanding and treatment options. By analyzing both germline and somatic tissues, the researchers hope to uncover new genetic factors that have not yet been identified. This could lead to better diagnostic tools and targeted therapies for affected children.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment options for children with congenital hydrocephalus.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using genomic approaches to uncover genetic factors in other congenital conditions, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Alabama at Birmingham
    Birmingham, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Chong, Zechen — University of Alabama at Birmingham
  • Study coordinator: Chong, Zechen

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.