How certain proteins influence organ development and disease

Oocyte polarity and BMP-mediated dorsoventral patterning

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11074640

This study is looking at how certain proteins help organs and tissues grow, using zebrafish to learn more about how these proteins work together, which could lead to better treatments for various health issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11074640 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of Bone Morphogenetic Proteins (BMPs) in the development of various organs and tissues, focusing on how BMP heterodimers signal more effectively than homodimers. By using zebrafish as a model organism, the research aims to understand the specific functions of BMP Type I receptors in signaling pathways that affect organ development and contribute to diseases. The findings could enhance the application of BMPs in medical fields such as tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, potentially leading to improved treatments for congenital and adult diseases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with congenital or adult diseases related to BMP signaling, such as cardiovascular or kidney conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to BMP signaling or those who are not affected by congenital or adult diseases may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better therapeutic strategies for conditions like cardiovascular defects and kidney disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding BMP signaling, indicating that this approach has potential for significant advancements in medical applications.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.