Exploring how genetic variation affects health and aging
Official title: Combining experimental evolution and molecular phenotyping to understand variation in organismal phenotypes
Funded at Oregon State University · NIH-11145900 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at why some people are more likely to develop adult-onset diabetes or age differently by examining fruit flies, helping us understand the genetic factors behind these health issues so we can create better, personalized treatments for everyone.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Corvallis, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $360,871 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM155286-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11145900 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals interested in understanding their genetic predispositions to diseases and aging, particularly those with a family history of adult-onset diabetes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a genetic predisposition to the conditions being studied or those who are not interested in genetic research may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic and phenotypic differences among individuals to understand why some people are more prone to diseases like adult-onset diabetes or age differently. By using experimental evolution in controlled environments, researchers can observe real-time changes in traits and identify the genetic factors that contribute to health outcomes. The study focuses on fruit flies, which serve as a model organism to uncover the biological mechanisms behind these variations. The ultimate goal is to inform personalized medicine approaches that could lead to better interventions and treatments for various health conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to personalized treatment strategies that improve health outcomes and longevity for individuals.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has successfully used experimental evolution to uncover genetic variations affecting health, indicating that this approach has potential for meaningful insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Oregon State University
Corvallis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Phillips, Mark a — Oregon State University
- Study coordinator: Phillips, Mark a
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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.