How some animals develop disease-like traits but stay healthy
Phylogenomic mechanisms of trait evolution and resilience to disease
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON · NIH-11140444
This project explores how certain fish species naturally develop conditions similar to human diseases, like anemia or heart enlargement, yet remain healthy.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11140444 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
We are looking into how some animals naturally develop traits that would be considered diseases in humans, such as anemia, weak bones, or an enlarged heart, and how they manage to thrive despite these conditions. Our team is developing new tools to examine the genetic changes that allow these traits to evolve and help these animals stay healthy. We will focus on understanding the genetic reasons behind these disease-like traits and how organs can adapt and recover from changes like seasonal shrinking. By studying various fish species, we hope to uncover the secrets of their resilience and apply this knowledge to human health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve human patients, but future applications could benefit individuals with conditions like anemia, osteopenia, metabolic disease, kidney disease, or cardiomegaly.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct clinical intervention will not find benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: This work could help us understand the genetic basis of human diseases like anemia, heart disease, and kidney disease, potentially leading to new ways to prevent or treat them.
How similar studies have performed: This approach of studying natural variation in animal models to understand disease resilience is a novel application of phylogenomic tools, building on established genetic and evolutionary principles.
Where this research is happening
HOUSTON, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON — HOUSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: DAANE, JACOB MICHAEL — UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON
- Study coordinator: DAANE, JACOB MICHAEL
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.