Automated technology to preserve Drosophila embryos
Official title: Automated technology for the preservation of Drosophila embryos
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11014402 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new machine that makes it easier to freeze and store fruit fly embryos, which are important for genetic research, so scientists can keep their valuable samples safe and healthy without all the complicated steps.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $510,508 |
| NIH project number | 5R01GM152809-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11014402 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include researchers and laboratories working with Drosophila genetics.
✕Less likely to help
Patients or individuals not involved in Drosophila research or related fields may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing an automated device for the cryopreservation of Drosophila embryos, which are essential for genetic studies. The project aims to simplify the complex and labor-intensive process of preserving these embryos by eliminating the need for harsh solvents and manual steps. By creating a fully autonomous fluidic device, the researchers hope to enhance the efficiency and reliability of embryo preservation, ensuring that valuable genetic strains are maintained without contamination or mutation. This innovative approach could significantly improve the sustainability of Drosophila research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more efficient preservation of genetic strains, benefiting researchers and the broader scientific community.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success with cryopreservation methods in Drosophila, but this specific automated approach is novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sandlin, Rebecca — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Sandlin, Rebecca
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.