How a specific gene influences eye development in fruit flies
Official title: Specification and patterning of the Drosophila retina by the Pax6 transcription factor
Funded at Trustees of Indiana University · NIH-11019148 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes help fruit flies develop their eyes, which could help us understand eye problems in people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Trustees of Indiana University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bloomington, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $366,399 |
| NIH project number | 1R01EY036802-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11019148 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals with congenital eye disorders such as aniridia or anophthalmia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acquired eye conditions unrelated to genetic factors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the Pax6 transcription factors, Eyeless and Twin of Eyeless, in the formation of the compound eye in fruit flies. By using advanced genetic tools and methods, the researchers aim to understand how these factors contribute to the unique identity of the eye during its early development. The study utilizes the Drosophila model due to its well-defined cellular development processes and the availability of various genetic markers. Insights gained from this research could shed light on congenital eye disorders in humans.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of eye development and potentially lead to new treatments for congenital eye disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has successfully utilized Drosophila models to understand genetic influences on organ development, indicating a promising approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Trustees of Indiana University
Bloomington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kumar, Justin P — Trustees of Indiana University
- Study coordinator: Kumar, Justin P
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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.