Forward genetic screen to find genes that shape left-right body patterning
Official title: A Forward Genetic Screen to Identify Genes Involved in Left-Right Patterning
Funded at Princeton University · NIH-11438936 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A zebrafish-based study will uncover genes that control how left-right body asymmetry is set up, which can impact congenital heart defects in people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Princeton University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Princeton, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 8, 2026 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $451,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R21HD123018-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11438936 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates include individuals with congenital heart defects or a family history suggesting LR-patterning anomalies who may benefit from future translational insights.
✕Less likely to help
Direct patient benefits are unlikely during early-stage basic research in zebrafish; translation to human care would occur in later stages.
What this research studies
This project plans a forward genetic screen in zebrafish to identify genes involved in left-right patterning, a key process that positions organs like the heart. By creating and analyzing many mutant lines, researchers aim to map how signals from early development direct asymmetric organ formation. The work focuses on understanding how calcium signaling and the Nodal/TGFbeta pathway influence left-right decisions and how organs interpret those signals during morphogenesis. Results could reveal new genetic factors that contribute to congenital heart defects and related conditions. The study is designed to build a resource of LR-patterning mutants to guide future research and potential clinical insights.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the research could lead to better understanding of the genetic causes of congenital heart defects and improved risk guidance for families.
How similar studies have gone: Previous LR-patterning studies have identified key pathway players; this project aims to expand the genetic map and identify new contributors.
Where this research is happening
-
Princeton University
Princeton, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Burdine, Rebecca D. — Princeton University
- Study coordinator: Burdine, Rebecca D.
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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.