Understanding how nerves interact with tissues during face development
Official title: Trigeminal nerve-target tissue interactions during craniofacial development
Funded at Univ of Maryland, College Park · NIH-11032025 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain nerves in the head work with different tissues to shape the face and head, hoping to find out why some babies are born with facial differences, so we can better prevent or treat these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Maryland, College Park NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (College Park, United States) |
| Project start | February 15, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $192,272 |
| NIH project number | 5R21DE033786-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11032025 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include expectant parents with a family history of craniofacial anomalies or those who have been diagnosed with conditions affecting craniofacial development.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with established craniofacial anomalies who are seeking surgical correction may not benefit directly from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between cranial nerves and various tissues during the development of the head and face. It aims to understand how these interactions can lead to craniofacial abnormalities, which are significant contributors to birth defects. By studying the trigeminal nerve and its role in the development of facial structures, the research seeks to uncover the mechanisms behind proper tissue formation and the implications of nerve signaling. This holistic approach could provide insights into preventing or treating craniofacial disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for craniofacial birth defects.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding nerve-tissue interactions in craniofacial development, indicating that this approach has potential for significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of Maryland, College Park
College Park, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Taneyhill, Lisa a — Univ of Maryland, College Park
- Study coordinator: Taneyhill, Lisa a
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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.