Understanding how different tissues in the face develop and connect.
Official title: Regulating Skeletal Connectivity in Craniofacial Development and Disease
Funded at University of Southern California · NIH-11017281 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how different types of tissues in the face and skull grow and work together, especially to help us understand the genetic causes of birth defects in these areas, so we can improve care for those affected.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 19, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2032 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $320,053 |
| NIH project number | 1R35DE034346-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11017281 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with congenital craniofacial differences or those with a family history of such conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without craniofacial disorders or genetic predispositions to these conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex interactions between various tissue types in the craniofacial skeleton, focusing on how they develop and connect during growth. By examining the roles of connective tissues alongside bone and cartilage, the study aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms that contribute to congenital craniofacial disorders. The research employs both disease-first and gene-first approaches to identify genetic variants linked to these conditions, utilizing a multidisciplinary team of experts in human genetics. This comprehensive approach seeks to fill critical gaps in our understanding of craniofacial development and its associated diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and potential treatments for congenital craniofacial disorders.
How similar studies have gone: While the study's focus on multi-tissue interactions in craniofacial development is innovative, similar research has shown promise in understanding other developmental disorders.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Merrill, Amy E — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Merrill, Amy E
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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.