Understanding how genetic mixing between species affects health

The population genomics of hybridization: from genetic incompatibilities to genome evolution

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · STANFORD UNIVERSITY · NIH-11128526

This project explores how genes from different species combine and what that means for health conditions like melanoma and problems with embryo development.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSTANFORD UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (STANFORD, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11128526 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

Researchers are looking into how genetic exchange between different species, called hybridization, shapes the genetic makeup of many living things, including humans. They are particularly interested in what happens when genes from two different species mix, which can sometimes lead to severe health issues. Using a specific fish model, the team aims to map out these problematic genetic interactions across the entire genome. The goal is to uncover the molecular reasons behind conditions like melanoma and early embryo loss that can arise from these genetic mixes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Patients with conditions like melanoma or a history of embryonic lethality, whose conditions might be linked to complex genetic interactions, could potentially benefit from future applications of this basic research.

Not a fit: Patients whose conditions are not related to genetic hybridization or the specific genetic mechanisms being studied may not directly benefit from this particular research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: This work could help us better understand the genetic causes of diseases like melanoma and issues with embryo development, potentially leading to new ways to prevent or treat them in the future.

How similar studies have performed: This research builds upon previous findings in the lab regarding genetic consequences of hybridization and develops new computational methods, indicating a foundation of prior work in this area.

Where this research is happening

STANFORD, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Disease, Disorder

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.