Understanding how certain cells develop into vagal neural crest cells

Molecular and cellular pathways driving competency for human vagal neural crest specification

['FUNDING_R21'] · SLOAN-KETTERING INST CAN RESEARCH · NIH-10727766

This study is exploring how to turn special stem cells into nerve cells that could help treat conditions like Hirschsprung's Disease, and it's for anyone interested in new ways to improve health for people with this condition.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSLOAN-KETTERING INST CAN RESEARCH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10727766 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how human pluripotent stem cells can be transformed into neural crest-like cells that have the potential to develop into vagal neural crest cells. By using retinoic acid and advanced lineage tracing technology, the researchers aim to identify the early stages of cell differentiation and the specific gene expression patterns that indicate vagal competence. The findings could enhance our understanding of how to generate these cells for therapeutic purposes, particularly for conditions like Hirschsprung's Disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with congenital conditions related to neural crest development, particularly those diagnosed with Hirschsprung's Disease.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to neural crest development or those who do not have congenital disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for congenital conditions affecting the nervous system, such as Hirschsprung's Disease.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using stem cells for neural crest differentiation, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights and advancements.

Where this research is happening

NEW YORK, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Disease, Disorder

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.