The U.S.C.team says it hopes future research will help prevent or treat cleft conditions in people.

VOA: special.2009.12.22

Cleft palate and cleft lip are two of the most common birth defects in human beings.

VOA: special.2009.12.22

Too much or too little of the protein can cause a cleft condition.

VOA: special.2009.12.22

Cleft palate is a separation in the top of the mouth.

VOA: special.2009.12.22

Many babies with cleft lip or palate have difficulty feeding.

VOA: special.2009.12.22

Cleft lip is a separation in the upper lip.

VOA: special.2009.12.22

Older children with cleft may have problems speaking.

VOA: special.2009.12.22

One way is a cleft graft.

VOA: special.2010.05.18

Cleft abnormalities usually develop early in pregnancy.

VOA: special.2009.12.22