Understanding how a specific gene regulates eye development using chicken embryos
Official title: Utilizing the Chicken Embryo to Decode the Transcriptional Regulation of FOXE3
Funded at Miami University Oxford · NIH-11035666 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific gene called FOXE3 helps develop the eye lens in chicken embryos, which could help us understand conditions like aphakia, where babies are born without a lens, and lead to better treatments for eye problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Miami University Oxford NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Oxford, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $214,227 |
| NIH project number | 1R21EY036999-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11035666 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with congenital eye conditions, particularly those with aphakia or microphthalmia linked to FOXE3 mutations.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with eye conditions not related to genetic factors or those without mutations in the FOXE3 gene may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the FOXE3 gene in eye development by examining how transcription factors regulate gene expression in the lens of chicken embryos. By utilizing advanced genome-wide sequencing techniques, the study aims to identify the regulatory elements that control the expression of FOXE3, which is crucial for proper lens formation. The research focuses on understanding the genetic mechanisms that lead to conditions like aphakia, where individuals are born without a lens. Through this work, researchers hope to gain insights that could inform future treatments for eye-related developmental disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating congenital eye disorders related to FOXE3 mutations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has successfully utilized similar approaches in model organisms to understand gene regulation, suggesting potential for success in this study.
Where this research is happening
-
Miami University Oxford
Oxford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Robinson, Michael L — Miami University Oxford
- Study coordinator: Robinson, Michael L
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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.