Understanding how specific proteins affect heart development in embryos
Official title: Investigating the role of Yap/Taz in neural crest-derived cardiac development
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-10999063 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins, called Yap and Taz, help form the heart from special cells in the body, and it aims to find out how problems with these proteins might lead to heart defects, which could help us understand and treat these issues better in the future.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $37,124 |
| NIH project number | 1F31HL176166-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10999063 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include infants diagnosed with congenital heart defects or those with a family history of such conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with congenital heart defects not related to neural crest cell development may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of Yap and Taz proteins in the development of the heart from neural crest cells, which are crucial for proper heart formation. By using mouse models with specific genetic modifications, the study aims to uncover how disruptions in these proteins can lead to congenital heart defects. The research employs advanced techniques like ATAC sequencing to analyze gene regulation and cell behavior during heart development. Insights gained could help in understanding the onset of heart defects and potentially guide future therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for congenital heart defects in newborns.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding the molecular mechanisms behind heart development can lead to significant advancements in treating congenital heart defects.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Erhardt, Shannon Nicole — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Erhardt, Shannon Nicole
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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.