Understanding how cells communicate during the development of bones and muscles in zebrafish embryos
Official title: Uncovering single-cell transcriptional dynamics in somitogenesis in live zebrafish embryos
Funded at University of California Berkeley · NIH-10742431 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how tiny segments that turn into bones and muscles form in live zebrafish embryos, helping us understand how cells work together during development, which could shed light on conditions like scoliosis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Berkeley NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Berkeley, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $441,375 |
| NIH project number | 1R21HD107436-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10742431 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals with developmental disorders related to bone and muscle formation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to developmental biology or genetic mutations affecting somite formation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the rhythmic formation of somites, which are segments that develop into bones and muscles, in live zebrafish embryos. By using a novel system to measure gene activity in real-time, the study aims to uncover how individual cells communicate and synchronize their development. This approach allows researchers to explore the underlying mechanisms of developmental defects, such as scoliosis, that can arise from disruptions in this process. The findings could provide insights into the genetic factors that influence normal and abnormal development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of developmental disorders and potential therapeutic strategies for conditions like scoliosis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in using live imaging techniques to study developmental processes, making this approach promising yet innovative.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Berkeley
Berkeley, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Garcia, Hernan Gustavo — University of California Berkeley
- Study coordinator: Garcia, Hernan Gustavo
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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.