How maternal vitamin A affects the risk and severity of cleft lip and palate in embryos

Impact of maternal dietary vitamin A on risk and severity of cleft lip/palate in genetically sensitized embryos

NIH-funded research University of Missouri Kansas City · NIH-11160761

This study is looking at how a mother's vitamin A intake during pregnancy might affect the chances and seriousness of cleft lip and palate in babies who are genetically at risk, using mice to learn more about how nutrition can help prevent or lessen this common birth defect.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Missouri Kansas City NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Kansas City, United States)
Project IDNIH-11160761 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how a mother's dietary intake of vitamin A may influence the risk and severity of cleft lip and palate (CL/P) in genetically predisposed embryos. By using established mouse models, the study aims to understand the relationship between maternal nutrition and the development of this common birth defect. The researchers will explore how vitamin A might modify genetic susceptibility and potentially correct issues in embryos before birth. This could provide insights into preventing or mitigating the severity of CL/P in affected children.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant women with a family history of cleft lip and palate or those who are genetically predisposed to this condition.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those without a family history of cleft lip and palate may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved dietary recommendations for pregnant women, potentially reducing the incidence and severity of cleft lip and palate in newborns.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that maternal nutrition can influence the risk of birth defects, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Kansas City, 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 2026-06-15 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.