Understanding how proteins guide cell development in embryos
Official title: Visualization of extracellular morphogens to understand self-organized patterning
Funded at Rice University · NIH-10981569 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at special proteins that help guide how cells develop in embryos, using cool techniques to see how they work together, which could help us understand some birth defects and how our bodies form.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rice University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | August 22, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $329,834 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HD112488-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10981569 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with congenital abnormalities or those interested in the biological mechanisms of embryonic development.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with fully developed conditions unrelated to embryonic development or those not affected by congenital abnormalities may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of extracellular proteins, known as morphogens, in embryonic development, focusing on how they convey positional information to cells. By utilizing advanced techniques like CRISPR to tag the Nodal gene with a fluorescent protein, researchers aim to visualize these proteins in action at natural concentrations. The study will explore how morphogens interact to establish cell fates and patterns during early development, particularly in the context of the Nodal signaling pathway. This could provide insights into the mechanisms behind congenital abnormalities and developmental processes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of developmental disorders and potential therapeutic strategies for birth defects.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding morphogen signaling and its implications for development, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Rice University
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Warmflash, Aryeh — Rice University
- Study coordinator: Warmflash, Aryeh
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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.