NIH-funded research R01 grant

Understanding how certain proteins affect facial development in mammals

Official title: Control of Mammalian Craniofacial Morphogenesis by the ESCRT Machinery

Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11056662 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how certain genes affect the development of facial features in mice, which could help us understand and find ways to prevent or treat conditions like cleft palate in people.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project startSeptember 16, 2024
Project endAugust 31, 2029
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$452,681
NIH project number1R01DE033885-01A1
Project IDNIH-11056662 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with congenital craniofacial abnormalities or those at risk of developing such conditions.

Less likely to help

Patients with craniofacial conditions unrelated to genetic or developmental signaling pathways may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the ESCRT machinery in the development of craniofacial structures in mammals. By studying a specific mouse model with a mutation in the ESCRT-II-encoding gene Vps25, researchers aim to understand how disruptions in cellular signaling and trafficking can lead to craniofacial defects. The study involves examining gene expression patterns and the effects of signaling pathways on craniofacial development, which could provide insights into congenital abnormalities such as cleft palate. The findings may help identify potential therapeutic targets for preventing or treating these birth defects.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating craniofacial birth defects in humans.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding the role of genetic factors in craniofacial development, making this approach promising.

Where this research is happening

  • University of California, San Francisco
    San Francisco, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Selleri, Licia — University of California, San Francisco
  • Study coordinator: Selleri, Licia

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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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.