Understanding how specific genes affect midface development and abnormalities
Official title: Deciphering neural crest-specific TFAP2 pathways in midface development and dysplasia
Funded at University of Iowa · NIH-10906653 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes help shape the middle part of the face during development, especially for babies born with conditions like Frontonasal Dysplasia, and it aims to find out what goes wrong when these genes don't work properly.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $45,001 |
| NIH project number | 5F31DE032881-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10906653 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are infants with craniofacial anomalies, particularly those affecting the midface region.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with craniofacial anomalies unrelated to the midface or those who are older than 4 weeks may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular mechanisms that control the development of the midface, particularly focusing on craniofacial anomalies that can occur at birth. By studying the neural crest, a group of embryonic cells that contribute to facial structures, the research aims to identify key genes and pathways involved in midface formation. The team will utilize animal models to explore how disruptions in these pathways can lead to conditions like Frontonasal Dysplasia, which is characterized by midface clefts. Through advanced techniques such as ATAC sequencing, the researchers will analyze gene regulatory networks to better understand these developmental processes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for the prevention and treatment of craniofacial anomalies in newborns.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding lower face development, but this specific focus on midface mechanisms is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Iowa
Iowa City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nguyen, Timothy — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Nguyen, Timothy
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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.