BackgroundAnimal models have long been widely used in the field of biosciences, including craniofacial biology. Several important milestones have been achieved in the field thanks to their application, allowing scientists to develop concepts, technologies, and methodologies to better understand more complex living systems, including humans.
Craniofacial deformities are one of the most common congenital birth defects worldwide. An increasing number of genetic and epigenetic studies suggest that temporospatial mechanisms play a crucial role in craniofacial development. However, players and molecular mechanisms are not fully understood yet.
Orofacial cleft is the most common congenital developmental malformation in maxillofacial region. Although it is not fatal, the treatment cycle is long, which causes great burden to the life quality and economic ability of patients and their families. Due to the complex pathogenesis of cleft lip and palate, it is believed that environmental and genetic factors jointly lead to the occurrence of cleft lip and palate. In recent years, the research on the pathogenesis of cleft lip and palate genes has become a hot spot. Mice, as mammals with high homology, are the most commonly used animal model of cleft lip and palate.
GoalsIn this Research Topic, we encourage the submission of original research and review articles that will stimulate the continuing efforts to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying craniofacial birth defects using animal models and transgenic technology. The understanding of the mechanisms underlying craniofacial deformities will lead to the development of diagnosis, treatment and prevention of these defects.
In addition to focusing on the many advantages of using transgenic animal models in this field, this Research Topic also aims to shed light on the challenges and limitations that accompany their application.
The scope of this collection covers, but is not limited to, the following themes and questions:
- Investigation of craniofacial deformities in newly generated or existing animal models
- Imaging analysis in animal models (CT & MRI, 3D reconstruction and the statistical analysis)
- Omics data analysis (epigenetic and posttranslational modification using animal models)
- Functional analysis for genes and non-coding RNAs in animal models
- Study for stem cells or age-related issues in craniofacial regions
- Oral, dental, craniofacial diseases and recent advances in diagnosis and treatment using animal models
- Environmental risk factors and their targeting molecules related to craniofacial defects
- New tools for the diagnosis, treatment and prevention
- Single cell atlas of animal models associated with craniofacial development
- Potential candidate gene and signaling pathway in development of craniofacial regions
Information for AuthorsManuscripts submitted to this Research Topic should be in line with the
scope of the Craniofacial Biology and Dental Research section. Several article types will be considered, please find more information
here.
This Research Topic is part of the Experimental Models and Model Organisms series of Frontiers in Physiology. Other titles in this series include:
•
Model Organisms and Experimental Models in Membrane Physiology and Membrane Biophysics: Opportunities and Challenges•
In Vitro Models: Opportunities and Challenges in Aquatic Physiology•
Experimental Models and Model Organisms in Cardiac Electrophysiology: Opportunities and Challenges•
Advances in Pluripotent Stem Cell-Based in Vitro Models of the Human Heart for Cardiac Physiology, Disease Modeling and Clinical Applications•
Model Organisms and Experimental Models: Opportunities and Challenges in Vascular Physiology Research•
Model Organisms: Opportunities and Challenges in Developmental Physiology•
Invertebrates as Model Organisms: Opportunities and Challenges in Physiology and Bioscience Research•
Model Organisms and Experimental Models: Opportunities and Challenges in Musculoskeletal Physiology•
Model Organisms and Experimental Models: Opportunities and Challenges in Integrative Physiology•
Model Organisms and Experimental Models: Opportunities and Challenges in Redox Physiology•
Experimental Models of Rare Cardiac Diseases 