Center for Craniofacial Development and Disorders

The Center for Craniofacial Development and Disorders
Visit the CCDD Web site. 

Founded at Johns Hopkins in 1994, the Center for Craniofacial Development and Disorders (CCDD) provides a comprehensive program in craniofacial research, education, and clinical care. The Center is multidisciplinary and multi-institutional with collaborative ties to universities, research institutions, hospitals, and patient support groups in 14 states and seven countries.

Current CCDD research is looking at the normal process of craniofacial development and the pathogenesis of genetic and teratogen-induced facial malformations, craniosynostosis (premature fusing of skull bones), and oral clefting in humans, as well as in several animal models (zebrafish, mice and rabbits). CCDD experts are also examining behavioral and psychosocial aspects of facial appearance.

The CCDD provides multidisciplinary clinical care for children born with craniofacial anomalies, such as those resulting from cleft lip and palate, fetal alcohol syndrome, and Apert and other syndromes. An individualized approach focused on early intervention, the most appropriate treatment and thorough follow-up care is supported by state-of-the-art diagnostic services including computer visualization and genetic evaluation.

Success has already been realized in research: CCDD scientists have isolated genes responsible for craniosynostosis and developed molecular tests to diagnose the condition; created and characterized animal models for oral clefting and abnormal skull development; and demonstrated the association of maternal smoking with an increased risk for oral clefting and craniosynostosis in newborns.