NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Understanding how specific proteins affect facial and neck development in embryos

Official title: Functional Characterization of Mediator Complex Proteins in Neural Crest and Craniofacial Development

Funded at State University of New York at Albany · NIH-10975378 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how a protein called Med23 affects the growth of facial structures, like in conditions such as cleft palate and retrognathia, by experimenting with mice to learn more about the causes of these issues and how we might help people who have them.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionState University of New York at Albany
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Albany, United States)
Project startSeptember 12, 2023
Project endOctober 31, 2025
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$248,909
NIH project number5R00DE030972-04
Project IDNIH-10975378 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with craniofacial anomalies such as cleft palate or retrognathia, particularly those with a genetic basis for their condition.

Less likely to help

Patients without craniofacial developmental disorders or those whose conditions are not linked to genetic factors may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the Med23 protein in the development of craniofacial structures, particularly focusing on conditions like cleft palate and retrognathia. By using advanced genetic techniques, the researchers create specific genetic modifications in mice to observe how changes in Med23 affect the development of neural crest cells and associated craniofacial anomalies. The study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind these developmental disorders, which could lead to better understanding and potential treatments for affected individuals.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for craniofacial developmental disorders.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding craniofacial development through genetic studies, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

  • State University of New York at Albany
    Albany, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Dash, Soma — State University of New York at Albany
  • Study coordinator: Dash, Soma

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.