Investigating genetic and environmental factors in craniofacial birth defects

Comparative toxicogenomics to determine conserved genetic and environmental interactions in craniofacial birth defects

NIH-funded research University of Texas at Austin · NIH-10824292

This study is looking at how genes and environmental factors, like certain toxins, work together to cause craniofacial birth defects, using zebrafish and mice to help find ways to prevent these issues and support families affected by them.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Texas at Austin NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Austin, United States)
Project IDNIH-10824292 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the complex interactions between genetic factors and environmental exposures that contribute to craniofacial birth defects. By using advanced bioinformatics and high-throughput analysis techniques, the study will explore how different toxicants and genetic variations can affect embryo development in model organisms like zebrafish and mice. The goal is to identify specific gene-environment interactions that may lead to these birth defects, ultimately providing insights that could help in prevention and risk communication for affected families.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a family history of craniofacial birth defects or those who are pregnant and concerned about environmental exposures.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of craniofacial birth defects or are not exposed to relevant environmental factors may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention strategies and risk assessments for craniofacial birth defects.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using similar genetic and environmental interaction approaches to understand other birth defects, indicating potential for this study's success.

Where this research is happening

Austin, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.