Investigating genetic and environmental factors in facial development abnormalities.

Epigenotype- Genotype -Phenotype interactions in facial development

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-10987717

This study is looking at how genes and the environment might cause cleft lip and palate in a special mouse model, which could help us understand these conditions better and improve ways to prevent and treat them in people.

Quick facts

Grant typeR03 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-10987717 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores how genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors contribute to the development of cleft lip and palate (CL/P) using a specific mouse model. By examining DNA methylation and gene expression in embryos, the study aims to understand how these factors influence the presence or absence of facial birth defects. The researchers will focus on identifying specific genes and their roles in the development of CL/P, which could lead to insights applicable to human conditions. This work may pave the way for future studies that could improve prevention and treatment strategies for these congenital abnormalities.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a family history of cleft lip and palate or those who have experienced these conditions themselves.

Not a fit: Patients without any genetic predisposition or those who do not have cleft lip or palate may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and potential interventions for preventing cleft lip and palate in humans.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding genetic and epigenetic contributions to congenital abnormalities, making this approach promising.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, 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 2026-06-13 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.