Understanding how genetic factors influence the development of cranial neural crest cells
Official title: Genetic and epigenetic regulation of cranial neural crest differentiation
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-10833713 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes and their controls help shape important cells that form the head, with the goal of understanding why some babies are born with conditions like cleft lip or other facial differences.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $423,033 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DE030377-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10833713 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with congenital birth defects, particularly those affecting craniofacial structures.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to cranial neural crest development may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic and epigenetic factors that regulate the differentiation of cranial neural crest cells (cNCCs), which are crucial for proper development of various tissues and structures in the head. By examining how these cells develop and differentiate, the research aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms that lead to congenital birth defects, such as cleft lip and craniofacial syndromes. The approach involves analyzing gene regulatory networks and epigenetic regulators to understand their roles in cell fate determination. This knowledge could provide insights into both normal biological processes and the causes of developmental disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and potential treatments for congenital birth defects related to cranial neural crest development.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding genetic and epigenetic regulation in developmental biology, making this approach promising.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Artinger, Kristin — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Artinger, Kristin
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.