Understanding how genes control the development of bird beaks
Official title: Cis regulatory control of avian bill morphogenesis
Funded at Princeton University · NIH-11019679 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how genes and cells work together to shape features like beaks in birds, helping us understand how mistakes in this process can lead to birth defects in people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Princeton University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Princeton, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | February 7, 2023 |
| Project end | February 6, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $91,349 |
| NIH project number | 5K00DE030326-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11019679 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with craniofacial malformations or those interested in genetic factors affecting craniofacial development.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without craniofacial malformations or those not affected by genetic factors related to neural crest development may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic and molecular mechanisms that guide the formation of craniofacial structures, such as beaks in birds. By studying the neural crest, a group of cells that contribute to these structures, the research aims to uncover how misregulation can lead to birth defects. The approach involves analyzing gene expression and chromatin remodeling during different stages of neural crest development. This could provide insights into the underlying causes of craniofacial malformations.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment options for craniofacial birth defects.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding genetic regulation of development, making this approach promising.
Where this research is happening
-
Princeton University
Princeton, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rothstein, Megan — Princeton University
- Study coordinator: Rothstein, Megan
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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.