NIH-funded research R01 grant

Understanding how a specific gene affects heart and facial vessel development

Official title: Chromatin remodeling factor CHD7 regulates cardiac and craniofacial lymphatic vessel development

Funded at Children's Hospital of Los Angeles · NIH-11144611 · Data updated 2026-11-12

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 startJuly 25, 2024
Project endApril 30, 2028
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$612,059
NIH project number5R01HL176018-02
Project IDNIH-11144611 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

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

Less likely to help

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

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.

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 gone: 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

  • Children's Hospital of Los Angeles
    Los Angeles, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Lien, Ching-Ling E — Children's Hospital of Los Angeles
  • Study coordinator: Lien, Ching-Ling E

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.