Understanding how Draxin affects the development of cranial neural crest cells

Characterization of the roles and regulation of Draxin in cranial neural crest

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11106070

This study is looking at how a protein called Draxin affects the development of cells that help form the face, which could help us understand and find new treatments for conditions like Treacher Collins syndrome.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-11106070 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of Draxin, a Wnt pathway antagonist, in the development of cranial neural crest (NC) cells, which are crucial for forming facial structures. By examining how Draxin regulates the timing of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in NC cells, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind craniofacial abnormalities. The approach includes analyzing the effects of Draxin on NC cell migration and differentiation, which could lead to insights into various craniofacial syndromes. Patients with conditions like Treacher Collins syndrome may benefit from the findings as they could help identify new therapeutic targets.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with craniofacial syndromes such as Treacher Collins syndrome or other related conditions.

Not a fit: Patients without craniofacial abnormalities or those not affected by neural crest development issues may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and potential treatments for craniofacial abnormalities associated with neural crest development.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding the roles of signaling pathways in craniofacial development, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, 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.
Conditions 22q11 Chromosomal Microdeletion Syndrome22q11 Deletion Syndrome22q11.2 deletion syndromeAutosomal dominant Opitz G/BBB syndromeBerry syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.