Understanding how exosomes affect cell movement and birth defects caused by alcohol exposure
Role of exosomes in the coordinated migration of neural crest cells and placodes and ethanol-induced teratogenesis
This study is looking at how tiny particles called exosomes help important cells move during early development and how drinking alcohol during pregnancy can mess this up, potentially leading to birth defects; by using zebrafish embryos, the researchers hope to find ways to prevent these issues and improve outcomes for babies affected by fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Louisville NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Louisville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10917396 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of exosomes in the migration of neural crest cells and placodes, which are crucial for proper embryonic development. It focuses on how ethanol exposure disrupts this migration, leading to birth defects such as craniofacial anomalies. By studying zebrafish embryos, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms behind these disruptions and explore the potential of using plant-derived exosome-like nanoparticles to prevent fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). This work could provide insights into new prevention strategies for conditions caused by alcohol exposure during pregnancy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant individuals or those planning to become pregnant who may be at risk of alcohol exposure.
Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or do not have a history of alcohol exposure may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new methods for preventing birth defects associated with alcohol exposure during pregnancy.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of exosomes in cell communication and development, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Louisville, United States
- University of Louisville — Louisville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Shao-Yu — University of Louisville
- Study coordinator: Chen, Shao-Yu
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 below.