Understanding how Sonic hedgehog signaling affects cranial neural crest cells
Official title: The role of Sonic hedgehog signaling in cranial neural crest potency
Funded at Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr · NIH-11042698 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special signal called Sonic hedgehog helps certain cells in the head develop into important parts like bones and cartilage, which could help us understand and treat facial abnormalities.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2023 |
| Project end | September 14, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $42,894 |
| NIH project number | 5F31DE033565-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11042698 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with craniofacial abnormalities or conditions related to cranial neural crest cell development.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with craniofacial conditions not linked to neural crest cell development may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of Sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling in cranial neural crest cells (CNCCs), which are crucial for forming the craniofacial structure. By examining how Shh influences the differentiation of these cells into various types, including bone and cartilage, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind their unique developmental capabilities. The researchers will utilize advanced techniques such as single-cell RNA sequencing and conditional mouse models to analyze the effects of Shh signaling on CNCC potency. This could provide insights into craniofacial abnormalities and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for craniofacial abnormalities.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results regarding the role of Sonic hedgehog signaling in craniofacial development, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr
Cincinnati, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Han, Simon Joon Young — Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Han, Simon Joon Young
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Accelerating Rheumatic Heart Disease Prevention in Uganda
A program to find people with rheumatic heart disease in Ugandan communities and give them preventive care close to home.
-
Enhanced surveillance network to track childhood vaccines and viral infections in kids
A nationwide pediatric surveillance network will closely watch how common viruses and vaccines affect children’s health, using standard protocols at hospital and ED sites.
-
Advancing CNS drug delivery through epigenetic tweaks
A medical research project aims to help people with lysosomal storage disorders by improving how treatments reach the brain.
-
Spina Bifida Registry for Better Clinic Care
A national registry project aims to improve care for people with spina bifida by collecting and sharing data from multidisciplinary clinics to guide evidence-based practices.
-
Hydroxyurea to help children with sickle cell anemia in Africa
A pediatric study tests hydroxyurea treatment for young children with sickle cell anemia in several African countries to see if it can reduce illness and improve health.
-
Hydroxyurea for Children with Sickle Cell in Africa
A pilot study tests hydroxyurea in young children with sickle cell disease across several African countries to see if it can reduce illness and hospital visits.
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.