Investigating how cell adhesion affects spinal column development in embryos
Official title: A Cross-scale analysis of cell-ECM adhesion in early spinal column development
Funded at Yale University · NIH-10903235 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins help cells stick together during the early development of the spine in zebrafish, which could help us understand and prevent birth defects like spina bifida and scoliosis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2024 |
| Project end | July 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $487,559 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HD115298-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10903235 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are expectant parents with a family history of spinal column birth defects or congenital abnormalities.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with established spinal column defects or those who are not planning to conceive may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of cell adhesion in the early development of the spinal column using zebrafish as a model organism. It examines how the extracellular matrix protein Fibronectin influences the convergence of the neural tube and the segmentation of paraxial mesoderm, which are critical processes in preventing birth defects like spina bifida and congenital scoliosis. By studying the mechanics of these cellular interactions, the research aims to uncover the underlying causes of these conditions and how they can be prevented.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing spinal column birth defects in humans.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in using zebrafish models to study developmental biology, indicating that this approach is promising.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Holley, Scott a — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Holley, Scott a
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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.