Understanding how a specific gene affects heart and facial vessel development

Chromatin remodeling factor CHD7 regulates cardiac and craniofacial lymphatic vessel development

NIH-funded research Children's Hospital of Los Angeles · NIH-11144611

This study is looking at how a gene called CHD7 affects the growth of important blood vessels in the heart and face, which can help us understand why some people have heart and facial problems from birth, and it could lead to new ways to help those patients in the future.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionChildren's Hospital of Los Angeles NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-11144611 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the CHD7 gene in the development of cardiac and craniofacial lymphatic vessels, which are crucial for fluid balance and immune function. By studying specific progenitor cells in the heart, the researchers aim to uncover how mutations in CHD7 can lead to congenital heart and facial defects. The approach includes advanced imaging techniques and genetic analysis in model organisms to trace the lineage and function of these cells. Patients may benefit from insights into the genetic causes of their conditions and potential new therapeutic targets.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with congenital heart defects or craniofacial anomalies linked to genetic factors.

Not a fit: Patients without congenital heart or craniofacial conditions may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for congenital heart and craniofacial malformations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding genetic influences on heart and facial development, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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.
Conditions Candidate Disease Gene
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.