How metabolism affects heart development in embryos

Regional specific metabolism regulates specification of the Spemann Organizer

NIH-funded research Yale University · NIH-11135350

This study looks at how the way early embryos use energy affects heart development, especially in a key area that helps shape the heart, and it aims to find out how this knowledge could help prevent heart problems in babies.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionYale University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New Haven, United States)
Project IDNIH-11135350 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the metabolism of early embryos influences the development of the heart, particularly focusing on a specific region known as the Spemann-Mangold Organizer. By studying the Xenopus embryo, the researchers aim to understand how oxygen consumption and metabolic processes dictate cell fate and contribute to congenital heart diseases. The project explores the relationship between metabolic signaling pathways and heart development, which could lead to new insights into preventing heart malformations in newborns.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are newborns and children diagnosed with congenital heart disease or those at risk due to metabolic disorders.

Not a fit: Patients with congenital heart disease not related to metabolic factors may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing congenital heart disease in infants.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding metabolic influences on development, but this specific approach is novel.

Where this research is happening

New Haven, 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.