Understanding how organs develop properly during embryonic growth
Official title: Multi-scale feedbacks for robust organ development
Funded at Duke University · NIH-10687672 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how organs, like the inner ear, grow and take shape during early development in zebrafish, aiming to uncover the secrets behind their proper formation to help prevent birth defects and other growth issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $1,319,060 |
| NIH project number | 1DP2HD115157-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10687672 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are expectant parents concerned about the risk of congenital abnormalities or birth defects.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with fully developed organs or those not at risk for congenital defects may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind the formation of organs during embryonic development, focusing on how organs achieve their correct shape and size. By studying the semicircular canals of the inner ear in zebrafish, researchers aim to understand the complex interactions between genetic information, cellular mechanics, and tissue geometry that contribute to robust organ morphogenesis. The study will explore how biological variations and feedback interactions influence the development process, potentially leading to insights that could prevent birth defects and other developmental disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing birth defects and improving outcomes for affected individuals.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding organ development through genetic and biophysical studies, but this specific approach focusing on multi-scale feedbacks is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Munjal, Akankshi — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Munjal, Akankshi
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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.