The study, published in Nature Communications, used CRISPR in zebrafish to remove the gene for cytoglobin. Researchers found it led to defects in the structure and location of organs in developing embryos.
“We found that cytoglobin plays a vital role in the structure and function of tiny hairlike structures called cilia, which determine the asymmetry and proper development of organs,” senior author Paola Corti, PhD, assistant professor of biochemistry and molecular biology at the university, said in the report.
This is the first time cytoglobin has been found to be involved in fetal development and potentially linked to birth defects, and the first time cytoglobin has been linked to cilia function, the report said.
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.
