NIH-funded research R21 grant

Understanding the causes of TAR syndrome and its developmental defects

Official title: Delineating molecular mechanism of developmental defects of TAR syndrome

Funded at Pennsylvania State University, the · NIH-10818067 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking into how changes in a specific gene called RBM8A cause TAR syndrome, which affects bone and facial development, and it aims to find new ways to treat this condition using a mouse model.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPennsylvania State University, the
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (University Park, United States)
Project startSeptember 15, 2023
Project endSeptember 14, 2025
Funding year2023
Award (this year)$411,925
NIH project number1R21DE032806-01A1
Project IDNIH-10818067 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with TAR syndrome or those with related congenital skeletal and craniofacial abnormalities.

Less likely to help

Patients with congenital defects not related to RBM8A mutations may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the genetic basis of TAR syndrome, a rare condition characterized by skeletal and craniofacial abnormalities. By studying the RBM8A gene, which is linked to this syndrome, the researchers aim to uncover how its deficiency leads to specific developmental issues. They will utilize a mouse model to explore the role of RBM8A in forelimb development and test innovative gene therapy approaches to potentially reverse these defects. The findings could pave the way for new treatments for affected individuals.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective treatments and preventive strategies for TAR syndrome and similar congenital defects.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding genetic causes of congenital defects, but this specific approach to TAR syndrome is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

  • Pennsylvania State University, the
    University Park, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Mao, Yingwei — Pennsylvania State University, the
  • Study coordinator: Mao, Yingwei

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.