Understanding how certain cells contribute to facial development and birth defects
Pbx-Directed Control of Cellular Behaviors that Drive Midface Morphogenesis
This study looks at how certain cells work together to form the upper lip and palate in developing faces, using mouse embryos to understand what can go wrong and cause cleft lip and palate, which could help find new ways to prevent or treat these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11089516 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the cellular behaviors that lead to the formation of the upper lip and palate during facial development, focusing on the role of specific transcription factors. By studying mouse embryos, the researchers aim to identify how the fusion of facial prominences can go awry, leading to conditions like cleft lip and palate. The approach includes analyzing different cell populations and their molecular characteristics to understand the mechanisms behind these birth defects. This work could provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for preventing or treating craniofacial anomalies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a family history of cleft lip or palate or those diagnosed with these conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with craniofacial conditions unrelated to cleft lip or palate may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating cleft lip and palate, improving outcomes for affected individuals.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the genetic and cellular mechanisms behind craniofacial development, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Selleri, Licia — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Selleri, Licia
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 below.