Understanding skull deformities in children using zebrafish models
Official title: Novel zebrafish model of syndromic craniosynostosis
Funded at Emory University · NIH-11057996 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at craniosynostosis, a condition where a baby's skull bones fuse too soon, and aims to find safer, non-surgical treatment options using zebrafish to help improve care for families affected by this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2024 |
| Project end | September 14, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $313,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R03DE033753-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11057996 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include children diagnosed with craniosynostosis, particularly those with syndromic forms of the condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with craniosynostosis who have already undergone multiple surgeries or those with unrelated craniofacial conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates craniosynostosis, a condition where skull bones fuse too early, leading to skull deformities and potential brain growth issues. By using zebrafish as a model, researchers aim to uncover the underlying mechanisms of this condition, which affects 1 in 2100-2500 live births. The study seeks to identify non-surgical treatment options, moving beyond the current standard of care that involves risky surgeries. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to safer and more effective treatments for craniosynostosis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to non-surgical treatment options for children with craniosynostosis, reducing the need for multiple surgeries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using zebrafish models has shown promise in understanding various human diseases, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Henke, Katrin — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Henke, Katrin
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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.