Understanding how genes and environment shape facial development
Epigenotype- Genotype -Phenotype interactions in facial development
This project looks at how genes and environmental factors work together to cause birth defects like cleft lip and palate.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11121033 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project uses a special mouse model to understand how genetic and environmental factors contribute to cleft lip and palate. Researchers are looking closely at how changes in DNA, gene activity, and cell growth affect facial development in these mice. By studying these interactions, we hope to learn why some individuals develop birth defects while others do not, even with similar genetic backgrounds. This foundational work aims to uncover the complex biological steps that lead to these conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational work in animal models does not directly involve human patients at this stage, but future studies may seek individuals with cleft lip and palate or families with a history of the condition.
Not a fit: Patients not affected by cleft lip and palate would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a better understanding of the causes of cleft lip and palate, potentially guiding future prevention strategies or treatments.
How similar studies have performed: While genetic factors are well-studied, this project explores the less understood role of epigenetic contributions in a specific mouse model, making its approach somewhat novel.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Green, Rebecca Michelle — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Green, Rebecca Michelle
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.