How tissues shape an embryo to prevent birth defects
Molecular drivers of tissue-specific morphogenetic programs
Researchers are learning how cells and tissues move and change shape during early development so the neural tube closes properly, aiming to help prevent birth defects like spina bifida.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11311901 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project focuses on neural tube defects, common and serious birth defects that occur when the neural tube fails to close. Scientists use zebrafish embryos to watch how groups of cells narrow and lengthen (called convergence and extension) and to study signaling molecules such as TGF-β that guide these tissue-specific behaviors. By comparing the neuroectoderm and underlying mesoderm, the team seeks the molecular switches that make one tissue behave differently from another during axis extension. The work is lab-based and uses microscopy, genetics, and molecular biology in the zebrafish model.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Although this is laboratory research using zebrafish, people or families affected by neural tube defects or those planning pregnancy would find the findings most relevant.
Not a fit: Because the project is basic science and does not enroll patients or offer treatments, people seeking immediate clinical care or therapeutic options will not directly benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal molecular targets that lead to better prevention, diagnosis, or future therapies for neural tube defects.
How similar studies have performed: Zebrafish and studies of convergence and extension have previously provided important insights into human neural tube defects, though the specific tissue‑level molecular drivers examined here are less explored.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- Baylor College of Medicine — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Williams, Margot L.k. — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Williams, Margot L.k.
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.