Understanding how a specific protein affects blood cell development in embryos
Official title: The role of EMT transcription factor Zeb2 in fetal hematopoiesis
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11118700 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called Zeb2 helps develop important blood cells during pregnancy, which could improve our understanding of how our immune system works and how blood cell formation affects our health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $54,538 |
| NIH project number | 5F30HL167565-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11118700 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals under 21 years old, particularly those with conditions related to blood cell development or immune function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are over 21 years old or do not have any hematological conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the Zeb2 transcription factor in the development of erythroid-myeloid progenitors (EMPs), which are crucial for forming blood cells during fetal development. The study aims to uncover how Zeb2 influences the differentiation of these progenitors into monocytes and tissue resident macrophages, which play vital roles in the immune system. By using advanced techniques like ATAC sequencing, researchers will analyze the genetic programs involved in this process. This research is essential for understanding the complexities of blood cell formation and its implications for health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding of blood cell development, potentially informing treatments for blood disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding transcription factors in hematopoiesis, making this approach promising yet still exploring novel aspects.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Jing — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Chen, Jing
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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.