How clonal raider ants communicate using their sense of smell.
Official title: Neurodevelopmental adaptations prime olfactory circuits for complex pheromonal communication in the clonal raider ant.
Funded at Rockefeller University · NIH-10975359 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how clonal raider ants develop their unique ways of communicating through smell, which helps them interact socially, and by understanding this process, researchers hope to learn more about brain development and conditions like autism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rockefeller University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $125,902 |
| NIH project number | 5K99DC021506-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10975359 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research are individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly those experiencing challenges with social communication.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have neurodevelopmental disorders or those who do not experience social communication difficulties may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the clonal raider ant develops its complex olfactory communication systems, which are crucial for social interactions. By studying the cellular mechanisms in the ant's brain, particularly in the olfactory circuits, researchers aim to uncover insights that could inform our understanding of neurodevelopmental disorders like autism spectrum disorder. The study employs advanced techniques such as 2-photon microscopy to observe neuronal activity in the ants during their development. This approach may reveal how these intricate communication systems evolve and function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to novel diagnostics and treatments for neurodevelopmental disorders affecting social communication.
How similar studies have gone: While this research utilizes a novel approach by studying an invertebrate model, similar studies in other species have shown promise in understanding complex communication systems.
Where this research is happening
-
Rockefeller University
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Frank, Dominic David — Rockefeller University
- Study coordinator: Frank, Dominic David
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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.