Investigating how DNA changes affect orofacial clefts
Official title: DNA methylation in orofacial clefting
Funded at University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11006285 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in our DNA, influenced by the environment, might lead to orofacial clefts, which are common birth defects in babies, to help find new ways to prevent and treat these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $474,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DE032710-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11006285 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include newborns and infants diagnosed with orofacial clefts, as well as families with a history of these conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have orofacial clefts or a family history of these birth defects may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of DNA methylation, an epigenetic mechanism, in the development of orofacial clefts, which are common birth defects affecting newborns. By examining how environmental factors influence DNA during critical periods of embryonic development, the study aims to uncover the biological processes that lead to these conditions. The researchers will utilize advanced techniques, including genome-wide methylation analysis and transcriptome profiling, to identify the molecular pathways involved in orofacial development and susceptibility to clefts. This approach could pave the way for new prevention strategies and therapeutic interventions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective prevention strategies for orofacial clefts, reducing their incidence and associated burdens.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding epigenetic mechanisms in other birth defects, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lipinski, Robert — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Lipinski, Robert
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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.