Improving gene editing techniques in zebrafish to study birth defects
Official title: Increasing the efficiency and range of prime editing for disease modeling in zebrafish
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10774325 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new way to change genes in zebrafish to help scientists better understand human birth defects and diseases, which could lead to better treatments for genetic disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | February 15, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $194,375 |
| NIH project number | 5R21OD033668-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10774325 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with congenital abnormalities or genetic disorders that could benefit from advanced modeling techniques.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to genetic mutations or those not involving congenital defects may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the efficiency and range of prime editing in zebrafish, a key model organism for studying human birth defects and diseases. By utilizing a novel approach to gene editing, the researchers aim to create more precise models of genetic mutations that contribute to various congenital conditions. The methodology involves using a specialized enzyme that can make targeted changes to the zebrafish genome, allowing for better representation of human genetic variants. This could lead to improved understanding and potential treatments for genetic disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate models for studying birth defects, ultimately improving diagnosis and treatment options for affected patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using prime editing techniques for genetic modifications, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Solnicakrezel, Lilianna — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Solnicakrezel, Lilianna
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Using MRI to measure brain oxygen levels as an early sign of small vessel disease in the brain
This study is looking at how measuring oxygen levels in the brain with MRI can help spot early signs of small vessel disease, which is linked to memory problems and dementia, especially Alzheimer's, so if you're at risk due to age or high blood pressure, you might be able to participate in MRI scans to learn more about
-
Advanced Methods & Modeling for Better Patient Care
A funding opportunity focused on developing new modeling methods to improve health care for patients through better data use and analytics.
-
Advanced methods and modeling for health research at Washington University
A health research grant at Washington University funds new modeling methods to support future patient-focused studies.
-
Center for Research in Emerging Infectious Diseases: Epidemiology, Surveillance and Pathogenesis
A NIH program will study and monitor emerging viruses from the Midwest U.S. and three Asian sites to understand how they spread and affect people.
-
How Poverty and the Environment Affect Heart Disease in Haiti and Beyond
This grant studies how poverty-related factors like food insecurity, stress, and pollution contribute to heart disease and aims to follow a large group of adults to better understand and prevent the disease.
-
Wearable tech to track blood loss during childbirth
A wearable device monitors cardiovascular signals to detect postpartum hemorrhage early so clinicians can act quickly to protect mothers.
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.