MMACHC Regulates Craniofacial Development

NIH RePORTER · NIH · R03 · $151,000 · view on reporter.nih.gov ↗

Abstract

cblC is a multiple congenital anomaly syndrome caused by mutations in the MMACHC gene. cblC is characterized by defects in cobalamin (vitamin B12) metabolism, but mild to moderate craniofacial abnormalities have been consistently documented in patients. Mutations in the mouse Mmachc gene are developmentally lethal and therefore, the mechanisms underlying the craniofacial deficits associated with cblC are not completely understood. Here we seek to produce a viable zebrafish model of cblC syndrome with which to understand the function of MMACHC in facial development. Specifically, we will determine whether the facial anomalies present in cblC are associated with the accumulation of toxic metabolites and cobalamin binding. Our studies have the potential to reveal a potentially paradigm shifting function for MMACHC in facial development and will help to prevent and treat metabolically associated craniofacial phenotypes.

Key facts

NIH application ID
10322429
Project number
5R03DE029517-02
Recipient
UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS EL PASO
Principal Investigator
Anita M Quintana
Activity code
R03
Funding institute
NIH
Fiscal year
2022
Award amount
$151,000
Award type
5
Project period
2021-01-01 → 2024-12-31