How metabolism controls embryo cells that build the face, heart, and other tissues
Metabolic control of the neural crest epigenome
['FUNDING_R01'] · BOSTON CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL · NIH-11241973
Researchers are looking at how changes in cell metabolism alter gene switches in early embryo cells called the neural crest, which could explain birth defects linked to maternal diabetes and obesity.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | BOSTON CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11241973 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Scientists will focus on neural crest cells—early embryo cells that form facial bones, heart structures, and other tissues—and study how a shift toward glycolysis changes chemical tags on the proteins that package DNA. They will map DNA regions that respond to metabolic changes and follow a newly described chemical tag called histone lactylation to see which genes are turned on or off. The team will use lab-grown cells and embryo models plus genomic mapping techniques such as CUT&RUN to pinpoint where metabolic signals act. The goal is to connect maternal metabolic shifts to specific gene programs that, when disrupted, can lead to congenital malformations.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who are pregnant or planning pregnancy and who have diabetes, obesity, or a family history of neural crest–related birth defects may be interested in the findings and any future clinical efforts from this team.
Not a fit: This basic laboratory research is unlikely to provide immediate treatments for people already living with established birth defects or for patients with conditions unrelated to neural crest development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal biological steps that link maternal diabetes or obesity to certain birth defects and suggest new prevention or screening strategies.
How similar studies have performed: Recent studies have begun linking metabolism to epigenetic marks like histone lactylation, but applying these ideas specifically to neural crest development and birth defects is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- BOSTON CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SIMOES-COSTA, MARCOS — BOSTON CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL
- Study coordinator: SIMOES-COSTA, MARCOS
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.