Understanding Craniofacial Birth Defects
Mechanisms underlying the multifaceted basis of craniofacial dysmorphogenesis
This research aims to understand the complex reasons why some babies are born with differences in their face and head shape.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas at Austin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11120894 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many babies are born with differences in their face and head, known as craniofacial birth defects, which can vary greatly. This project explores the normal genetic instructions, cell signals, and cell interactions that guide the development of the face and head. We want to learn how disruptions from genetics or the environment can lead to these birth differences. The team is looking at how cells communicate during development, how different tissues grow together smoothly, and how environmental factors interact with genes to cause these conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is for families and individuals affected by craniofacial birth defects, as it seeks to uncover the root causes of these conditions.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments or direct clinical intervention will not find it in this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to better ways to understand, diagnose, and potentially treat craniofacial birth defects in the future.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific multifactorial interactions are not fully understood, other studies have successfully used similar genetic and cellular approaches to understand developmental processes.
Where this research is happening
Austin, United States
- University of Texas at Austin — Austin, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Eberhart, Johann K — University of Texas at Austin
- Study coordinator: Eberhart, Johann K
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 below.