Understanding how gene regulation affects heart development and congenital defects
Official title: Defining and perturbing gene regulatory dynamics in the developing human heart to understand mechanisms of congenital heart defects
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-11014076 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our genes affect the way our hearts develop and how changes in those genes can cause heart problems from birth, with the goal of helping doctors better understand and treat these conditions for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | January 22, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $657,142 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL171611-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11014076 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with congenital heart defects or those with a family history of such conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with heart defects caused by non-genetic factors may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex processes involved in human heart development, focusing on how genetic variations can disrupt normal development and lead to congenital heart defects. By utilizing advanced techniques such as single-cell RNA sequencing and CRISPR-based perturbations, the study aims to create detailed models that predict the impact of genetic changes on heart tissue formation. Patients may benefit from insights gained through this research, which could lead to improved understanding and treatment of congenital heart conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide critical insights into the genetic causes of congenital heart defects, potentially leading to better prevention and treatment strategies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using similar genetic and computational approaches to understand heart development and congenital defects.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Greenleaf, William James — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Greenleaf, William James
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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.