Understanding how cells shape the palate during development
Official title: Cellular mechanisms of palatal shelf outgrowth
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11068784 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain cells work together to form the roof of the mouth and how changes in specific genes might lead to issues like cleft palate, which can affect babies, with the hope of finding ways to better understand and prevent these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | September 6, 2024 |
| Project end | September 5, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $48,003 |
| NIH project number | 1F30DE033612-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11068784 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a family history of cleft palate or other craniofacial anomalies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with craniofacial conditions unrelated to the mechanisms being studied may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the cellular mechanisms involved in the development of the palate, focusing on how certain cells move and change shape to form a continuous structure. It aims to understand the roles of specific genes, Efnb1 and Shrm4, in regulating these cell behaviors during palate formation. By using advanced 3D imaging techniques and mouse genetics, the research will analyze how disruptions in these processes can lead to conditions like cleft palate, which affects many newborns. The findings could provide insights into the biological pathways that contribute to craniofacial birth defects.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and potential treatments for cleft palate and other craniofacial abnormalities.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding craniofacial development through genetic and imaging approaches, indicating that this study builds on established methods.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shamardani, Karin — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Shamardani, Karin
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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.