Understanding how primate embryos develop during early stages.
Official title: Shining light on the mechanisms of primate gastrulation: development of high-throughput, optogenetic tools for understanding embryonic development
Funded at University of California Santa Barbara · NIH-10827238 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how primate embryos develop by creating special 3D models using stem cells from chimpanzees, which will help scientists learn more about how cells move and change during early development.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Santa Barbara NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Santa Barbara, United States) |
| Project start | July 22, 2024 |
| Project end | July 21, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $74,284 |
| NIH project number | 1F32HD114539-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10827238 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals interested in advancements in reproductive health and embryonic development.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to embryonic development or reproductive health may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on the critical process of gastrulation in primate embryonic development, which is essential for forming the body's structure. It aims to develop advanced tools, specifically an optofluidic platform, to create and study three-dimensional models of primate embryos, known as stembryos. By using induced pluripotent stem cells from chimpanzees, the researchers will be able to manipulate and observe cell behavior in a controlled environment, enhancing our understanding of cell differentiation and migration during this crucial developmental phase.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding embryonic development, potentially improving reproductive health and developmental biology.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using optogenetic tools in embryonic development is innovative, similar studies in other model organisms have shown promise, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rufo, Joseph — University of California Santa Barbara
- Study coordinator: Rufo, Joseph
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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.