Health Research Board

This research programme aims to reduce the incidence of orofacial clefts and other congenital malformations in Ireland and throughout the world.

Cleft lip and palate is the most common birth defect of the head and neck region. It affects about 1 in every 700 babies born in Ireland. It occurs in the early weeks of pregnancy while the face is being formed. The top and the two sides of the face develop at the same time and grow towards each other, finally closing in the centre.

In a child with cleft lip and/or palate this final closing does not happen properly and a cleft remains open. We are not sure what causes clefts, but scientists are studying how the condition might be influenced by our genes and how these genes interact with nutritional and environmental factors.

What is the goal of the study?

We want to understand why a person is born with a cleft lip and/or palate. This study will help us identify the cause(s) and how we might prevent them.

Where will the study take place? 

It is a national study and is being carried out all over Ireland.

Who is doing the study?

The study is a joint effort between the Health Research Board, Dublin, Trinity College, Dublin and the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development of the United States of America.

What are genes?

What inherit genes from our parents which decide our physical appearance (for example, our eye colour). We also inherit genes that influence whether we are tall or small, or whether we develop certain conditions or illness. It is thought that humans have about 30,000 genes. Our genes are made up of a chemical called DNA.

What is DNA?

To make a person, the body follows a set of instructions. Your body stores these instructions in DNA, which is a spiral shape. Your genes are made up of DNA and it controls everything from the way you look to the way you develop physically and mentally. DNA tells your body how fast your hair will grow and how big your feet will be. It tells your body to put skin on the outside and even tells your brain to grow. It may even tell your body to develop a cleft lip or other conditions.

Present state of the study

Recruitment of participants to the study ended in October 2004. Data analysis still continues.

How do I get more information on the study?

If you would like more information you can contact the Principal Investigator of the research team below: