How genes and environment interact to cause congenital heart disease
Gene-by-environment interactions that affect exposure-mediated congenital heart disease
This study is looking at how genetics and pollution might cause congenital heart disease by using the Atlantic killifish, which lives in dirty waters, to see how harmful chemicals affect heart development, with the hope of finding better ways to prevent and treat this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California at Davis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Davis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10852954 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how genetic differences and environmental exposures contribute to congenital heart disease (CHD) using the Atlantic killifish as a model. By studying this fish, which lives in polluted urban environments, researchers aim to understand how exposure to harmful chemicals affects heart development. The project employs advanced techniques like CRISPR to explore these interactions, potentially revealing new insights into the causes of CHD. This could lead to better prevention strategies and treatments for affected individuals.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a family history of congenital heart disease or those who have been exposed to environmental pollutants.
Not a fit: Patients without any genetic predisposition to congenital heart disease or those not exposed to relevant environmental factors may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and prevention of congenital heart disease in humans.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using model organisms like fish to study complex human diseases, indicating that this approach has potential.
Where this research is happening
Davis, United States
- University of California at Davis — Davis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Whitehead, John Andrew — University of California at Davis
- Study coordinator: Whitehead, John Andrew
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 below.