Understanding how genes control body development using cephalopods
Official title: A new animal model to elucidate mechanisms of gene regulation and embryonic patterning
Funded at Marine Biological Laboratory · NIH-10894711 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at special genes in squids and octopuses to understand how they help with body development, which could give us helpful information about human growth issues and diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Marine Biological Laboratory NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Woods Hole, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $423,750 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM147273-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10894711 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with congenital malformations or genetic disorders related to developmental processes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to genetic regulation or developmental processes may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of Hox genes, which are crucial for proper body development, by using cephalopod models like squid and octopus. The team has developed advanced tools and resources to study these animals, focusing on their unique and expanded Hox gene clusters. By examining how these genes function during embryonic development, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could explain malformations and diseases in humans. Patients may benefit from insights gained about genetic regulation and its implications for developmental disorders and cancers.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of genetic causes of developmental disorders and cancers in humans.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of cephalopods in genetic research is relatively novel, previous studies on Hox genes in other model organisms have shown promising results.
Where this research is happening
-
Marine Biological Laboratory
Woods Hole, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Albertin, Caroline B — Marine Biological Laboratory
- Study coordinator: Albertin, Caroline B
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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.