Investigating growth challenges in children with Noonan-like syndrome using zebrafish models
Official title: Evaluating causes for failure to thrive in a Noonan-like syndrome with loose anagen hair (NSLH) patients using NSLH vertebrate model
Funded at University of Kentucky · NIH-11071376 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at why some kids with Noonan syndrome and loose anagen hair have trouble growing, using zebrafish to see how certain genes affect their digestion and metabolism, with the hope of finding better nutrition options to help these children thrive.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kentucky NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lexington, United States) |
| Project start | November 6, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $231,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R21HD117520-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11071376 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children under 11 years old diagnosed with Noonan syndrome with loose anagen hair or similar RASopathies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with RASopathies that do not exhibit growth or gastrointestinal issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the reasons behind growth difficulties in children with Noonan syndrome with loose anagen hair (NSLAH). By using zebrafish as a model organism, the study aims to explore how specific genetic mutations affect gastrointestinal development and metabolism. The transparent nature of zebrafish allows researchers to observe developmental processes in real-time, which could lead to identifying effective nutritional supplements for affected patients. The ultimate goal is to improve treatment options and outcomes for children suffering from this condition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better treatment strategies and nutritional interventions for children with NSLAH, improving their growth and overall health.
How similar studies have gone: While this specific approach using zebrafish is novel, similar studies have shown promise in understanding metabolic disorders and developing treatments for related conditions.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Kentucky
Lexington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Galperin, Emilia — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Galperin, Emilia
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.