Exploring how brain circuits work using fruit flies
Official title: Molecular design for circuit engineering in the Drosophila brain
Funded at Northwestern University · NIH-10991123 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the brain works by using fruit flies to see how changes in their brain connections affect their behavior, which could help us learn more about conditions like autism and ADHD.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $251,573 |
| NIH project number | 1R21EY036651-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10991123 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals with autism spectrum disorder or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurological conditions unrelated to synaptic dysfunction may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex workings of the brain by focusing on the Drosophila, or fruit fly, as a model organism. By employing advanced molecular design and cell culture techniques, the researchers aim to manipulate synaptic connections within the fly's brain to understand how these connections influence behavior and decision-making. The study will involve both in vitro screening and in vivo experiments to test hypotheses about brain circuit dynamics and their relevance to conditions like autism and ADHD. This innovative approach could lead to breakthroughs in understanding brain function and dysfunction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide critical insights into the mechanisms underlying neurological conditions, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using model organisms like Drosophila to study brain function, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gallio, Marco — Northwestern University
- Study coordinator: Gallio, Marco
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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.