How the human cerebellum develops and why it sometimes forms abnormally
Pathological Mechanisms of Human Cerebellar Malformations
This project looks at how the human cerebellum grows before birth and what causes malformations that can affect movement, thinking, and behavior.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Seattle Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11330758 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You would be told that the team will examine prenatal images and donated human cerebellar tissue and compare these directly with mouse and primate data to find human-specific differences. They will use genetic, cellular, and detailed anatomical analyses alongside advanced imaging to map normal development and points where it goes wrong. The researchers combine human samples and animal model comparisons to pinpoint biological mechanisms behind cerebellar birth defects. Findings are intended to improve how these malformations are recognized and understood across development.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with diagnosed cerebellar malformations, prenatal imaging suggesting cerebellar abnormalities, or families affected by inherited cerebellar disorders could potentially be involved.
Not a fit: People without cerebellar developmental problems or whose conditions are unrelated to cerebellar structure are unlikely to benefit directly from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could improve diagnosis, counseling, and pave the way toward treatments or interventions for people with cerebellar developmental disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Animal studies have revealed many developmental mechanisms, but important human-specific differences make this human-focused work relatively novel and necessary.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- Seattle Children's Hospital — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Millen, Kathleen Joyce — Seattle Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Millen, Kathleen Joyce
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.