How nerve cells develop in the gut during early life
Transcriptional regulation of neuronal cell lineage decisions in the developing enteric nervous system
['FUNDING_R01'] · CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY · NIH-11082511
This study is looking at how nerve cells that help control gut function develop from early cells in zebrafish, which could help us understand conditions like Hirschsprung’s Disease that affect gut health.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PASADENA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11082511 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how nerve cells in the enteric nervous system, which controls gut function, develop from precursor cells during early stages of life. By using advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing and CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing in zebrafish, the study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that guide the formation of different types of neurons in the gut. Understanding these processes could provide insights into conditions like Hirschsprung’s Disease, where nerve cells fail to develop properly, leading to severe gastrointestinal issues. The research focuses on identifying specific genes and signals that influence neuronal lineage decisions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include infants and children diagnosed with Hirschsprung’s Disease or related gastrointestinal disorders.
Not a fit: Patients with fully developed enteric nervous systems or those without gastrointestinal disorders may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for gastrointestinal disorders caused by nerve cell development issues.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in understanding neuronal development using similar genetic and imaging techniques, suggesting potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
PASADENA, UNITED STATES
- CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY — PASADENA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BRONNER, MARIANNE — CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
- Study coordinator: BRONNER, MARIANNE
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.