Understanding how early embryos develop into pluripotent cells

Transcriptome reprogramming in the early embryo

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-10876351

This study is looking at how early zebrafish embryos switch from relying on their mother's genes to using their own, which helps them develop into any type of cell, and it aims to understand the important steps in this process to improve our knowledge of development and potential treatments for diseases.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10876351 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the process by which early embryos transition from maternal to zygotic control, leading to the formation of pluripotent cells that can develop into any cell type. Using zebrafish as a model organism, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms by which maternal factors activate specific genes in the embryonic genome. By employing advanced techniques to analyze gene activation at early developmental stages, the research seeks to provide insights into fundamental developmental processes and their implications for disease modeling and therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals interested in developmental biology, genetic disorders, or regenerative medicine.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced-stage cancers or those not affected by genetic developmental disorders may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of embryonic development and lead to breakthroughs in regenerative medicine and cancer therapies.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in using zebrafish models to study gene regulation and pluripotency, indicating that this approach is promising and has been validated in similar contexts.

Where this research is happening

PITTSBURGH, 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: Cancers, 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.