Understanding how Zika virus causes early closure of skull sutures in infants
Official title: Molecular mechanism of Zika virus-induced premature craniofacial suture closure
Funded at Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru · NIH-10999451 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the Zika virus during pregnancy might lead to problems with a baby's skull development, specifically a condition called craniosynostosis, and how this could affect their growth and brain development later on, using a mouse model to find out more about what happens and how we might help.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $402,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DE033391-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10999451 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include infants who were exposed to Zika virus during pregnancy and may be at risk for craniosynostosis or related developmental issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been exposed to Zika virus or do not have craniosynostosis are unlikely to benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of Zika virus infection during pregnancy, particularly its role in causing premature closure of cranial sutures, a condition known as craniosynostosis. The study will analyze how the virus affects bone development in the skull and its potential link to neurodevelopmental issues in children. By using a mouse model that mimics human infection, researchers aim to uncover the underlying biological mechanisms and identify potential interventions. This work is crucial for understanding the long-term impacts of Zika virus on affected infants.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for craniosynostosis and associated neurodevelopmental disorders in children exposed to Zika virus.
How similar studies have gone: While there has been significant research on Zika virus and its effects, this specific investigation into craniosynostosis is novel and has not been extensively studied before.
Where this research is happening
-
Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Weiqiang — Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru
- Study coordinator: Chen, Weiqiang
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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.