Understanding how the midface skeleton forms and is affected by genetic disorders
Official title: Mechanisms patterning the midface
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10930949 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes affect the growth of facial bones around the nose and eyes, especially for people with conditions like frontonasal dysplasia, using zebrafish to help understand these processes better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 18, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $426,479 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DE030448-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10930949 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with congenital facial abnormalities, particularly those diagnosed with frontonasal dysplasia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with facial abnormalities not related to genetic factors or those without any congenital conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the development of the midface skeleton, which includes structures around the nose, eyes, and upper jaw, particularly in the context of genetic disorders like frontonasal dysplasia. By using zebrafish models with genetic mutations, the study aims to uncover how specific genes, known as ALX transcription factors, influence the identity and formation of these facial structures. The researchers will employ various techniques, including in situ hybridization and live cell tracking, to analyze the effects of these genes on skeletal development. This work could provide insights into the underlying mechanisms of congenital facial abnormalities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and potential treatments for congenital facial abnormalities.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in using genetic models to study congenital abnormalities, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nichols, James Tucker — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Nichols, James Tucker
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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.