Exploring how certain genetic elements affect sex ratios in fruit flies.
Official title: Investigating the evolutionary genetics and genomic consequences of sex-ratio meiotic drive in Drosophila
Funded at University of Rochester · NIH-10892286 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain genes in fruit flies can change the number of male and female offspring, helping us understand the science behind these changes and how they might relate to other living things.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project start | July 22, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $308,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R01GM148442-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10892286 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be individuals interested in genetics, evolutionary biology, or those affected by fertility issues linked to genetic factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to genetic mechanisms or those not interested in the genetic basis of fertility may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic mechanisms behind sex-ratio meiotic drive in fruit flies, focusing on how certain genetic elements can skew the sex ratio of offspring. By studying three closely related species of Drosophila, the researchers aim to understand the evolutionary dynamics and molecular interactions that lead to these biases. The approach involves advanced genomic techniques to analyze the genetic conflicts that arise from these selfish genetic elements and their impact on fertility and population dynamics. Patients interested in genetics or evolutionary biology may find the findings relevant to understanding similar mechanisms in other organisms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of genetic factors influencing fertility and population sustainability, potentially informing conservation efforts.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on sex-ratio meiotic drive in Drosophila is relatively novel, similar genetic mechanisms have been studied in other organisms with some success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Rochester
Rochester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Presgraves, Daven C — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Presgraves, Daven C
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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.