Understanding how zebrafish develop their spinal columns

The systems developmental biology of zebrafish body elongation

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · YALE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10991044

This study is looking at how zebrafish develop their spinal columns to help us understand birth defects like scoliosis and spina bifida in humans, using a mix of genetics and imaging to see how cells work together during growth.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorYALE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10991044 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the developmental biology and biomechanics of spinal column formation in zebrafish, which serve as a model for human development. By combining genetics, live imaging, and computational modeling, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind birth defects like scoliosis and spina bifida. The team will analyze how cells interact and behave during the critical process of body elongation, focusing on the stability of cell states and the influence of mechanical signals on cell movement. This comprehensive approach seeks to provide insights into the fundamental principles of embryonic development.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a family history of spinal birth defects or related conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with fully developed spinal structures and no history of spinal birth defects may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of the causes of spinal birth defects and inform potential therapeutic strategies.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in using zebrafish as models for studying developmental biology and related birth defects.

Where this research is happening

NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES

Researchers

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 below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.