How fibronectin affects the growth of skull bones.

Substrate-mediated collective cell migration incalvarial bone expansion and disease.

NIH-funded research Case Western Reserve University · NIH-11136879

This study is looking at how a protein called fibronectin affects the growth of skull bones, which could help us understand conditions like craniosynostosis that change the shape of the skull, and it aims to find new ways to treat these issues for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCase Western Reserve University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cleveland, United States)
Project IDNIH-11136879 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of fibronectin, a protein that helps cells adhere to their surroundings, in the growth and development of skull bones. By studying mouse models, the researchers aim to understand how changes in fibronectin levels can impact the migration and expansion of bone-forming cells, known as osteoblasts, during skull development. The study will explore how these processes relate to congenital defects like craniosynostosis, which affects the shape and structure of the skull. Patients may benefit from insights gained about the underlying mechanisms of these conditions, potentially leading to new treatment strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with congenital skull abnormalities, such as craniosynostosis.

Not a fit: Patients without congenital skull defects or those not affected by cranial growth disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for congenital skull defects.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cellular migration and its implications for bone growth, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Cleveland, 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.
Conditions Animal Disease ModelsApert syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.