Understanding how skin patterns develop in mammals
Using naturally evolved phenotypic variation to decipher the positional regulatory code of mammalian skin
This study looks at how different patterns on animal skin, like stripes on rodents or special membranes in marsupials, develop naturally and what genes are involved, helping us learn more about normal skin growth and potential skin issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Princeton University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Princeton, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11011771 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the natural variations in mammalian skin to understand how developmental changes can lead to different skin patterns without causing harmful effects. By studying specific phenomena like stripe patterns in rodents and gliding membranes in marsupials, the research aims to uncover the genetic and developmental mechanisms behind these variations. The approach combines observational studies of animal diversity with advanced genomic techniques to analyze how skin acquires positional information during development. This could provide insights into both normal development and congenital abnormalities.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with congenital skin abnormalities or those interested in genetic conditions affecting skin development.
Not a fit: Patients with skin conditions unrelated to developmental processes or those not affected by congenital abnormalities may not receive benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding of congenital malformations and potential strategies for their prevention or treatment.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding developmental biology through the study of natural phenotypic variation, making this approach promising.
Where this research is happening
Princeton, UNITED STATES
- Princeton University — Princeton, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mallarino, Ricardo — Princeton University
- Study coordinator: Mallarino, Ricardo
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 below.