NIH-funded research Fellowship grant

Understanding how specific proteins control gene expression during zebrafish development

Official title: Uncovering Nodal signaling and transcription factor interactions in somitic mesoderm development using single-cell deep learning methods

Funded at University of Washington · NIH-11013782 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is exploring how certain proteins help control gene activity during zebrafish development, using advanced technology to create a detailed map of these interactions, which could also help us understand similar processes in humans.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Washington
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project startAugust 16, 2023
Project endDecember 31, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$51,149
NIH project number5F30HD113217-02
Project IDNIH-11013782 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with genetic conditions related to transcription factor dysfunction or developmental anomalies.

Less likely to help

Patients with conditions unrelated to transcription factor interactions or those not affected by developmental processes may not receive any benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the interactions between transcription factors and their role in gene regulation during the development of zebrafish. By utilizing advanced computational tools and deep learning methods, the study aims to create a detailed map of how these proteins influence gene expression in specific cell types. The approach includes high-throughput single-cell techniques to analyze chromatin accessibility and gene activity, followed by targeted genetic modifications using CRISPR technology to validate findings. This innovative methodology seeks to uncover the mechanisms behind developmental processes that could have implications for understanding similar processes in humans.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into developmental biology and potential therapeutic strategies for developmental disorders.

How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in using computational methods and CRISPR technology to explore gene regulation, indicating that this approach has potential for impactful findings.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Washington
    Seattle, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Mullen, Andrew Carter — University of Washington
  • Study coordinator: Mullen, Andrew Carter

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.