Understanding how zebrafish fins grow and regenerate

Illuminating the mechanisms that generate pattern and shape during growth and regeneration of the zebrafish fin

NIH-funded research Boston College · NIH-10906193

This study looks at how zebrafish fins know where they are in the body so they can grow and heal properly, which could help us understand and improve treatments for people with limb issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBoston College NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chestnut Hill, United States)
Project IDNIH-10906193 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how zebrafish fins interpret their biological location to grow and regenerate correctly. By studying the mechanisms that guide the size, pattern, and shape of these fins, researchers aim to uncover the processes that lead to limb malformations and improve regenerative therapies. The study utilizes zebrafish as a model organism due to their remarkable ability to regenerate fins after amputation, providing insights into cellular behavior and positional identity during growth.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with congenital limb disorders or those interested in regenerative therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with non-congenital limb issues or those not seeking regenerative treatments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to advancements in preventing and treating congenital limb disorders and improving regenerative medicine.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in using zebrafish models to understand growth and regeneration, making this approach both relevant and promising.

Where this research is happening

Chestnut Hill, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.