Exploring how RNA Polymerase III affects the development of facial structures from neural crest cells
Official title: Understanding RNA Polymerase III transcription in neural crest cell and craniofacial development
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11067822 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific protein affects the growth of facial structures in babies, especially in cases like Treacher Collins syndrome, by using zebrafish to see what happens when certain genes don’t work right.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | April 5, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $248,996 |
| NIH project number | 5R00DE030971-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11067822 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with craniofacial anomalies, particularly those associated with genetic conditions like Treacher Collins syndrome.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without craniofacial anomalies or those not affected by genetic conditions related to neural crest cell development may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of RNA Polymerase III in the development of craniofacial structures, focusing on neural crest cells (NCC) which are crucial for forming bones and cartilage in the face. By studying zebrafish models, the research aims to understand how disruptions in RNA transcription can lead to craniofacial birth defects, such as Treacher Collins syndrome. The approach includes examining the effects of specific gene mutations on NCC development and the overall impact on craniofacial anomalies. This work could lead to new insights into preventing these birth defects.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new strategies for preventing craniofacial birth defects in infants.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding the genetic basis of craniofacial anomalies, indicating that this approach has potential for meaningful insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Watt, Kristin Emily Noack — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Watt, Kristin Emily Noack
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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.