How diet affects repetitive behaviors in animals.

Gene Coexpression Network Regulating Repetitive Behavior under Nutritional Change.

NIH-funded research University of Hawaii at Manoa · NIH-10934564

This study is looking at how a low-carb ketogenic diet affects repetitive behaviors in Mexican cavefish and surface fish, hoping to learn more about how diet and genetics can influence behavior in animals.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Honolulu, United States)
Project IDNIH-10934564 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how a low-carbohydrate ketogenic diet influences repetitive behaviors in animals, particularly focusing on the Mexican cavefish and surface fish. By examining the genetic and neurocircuit changes that occur under nutritional ketosis, the study aims to understand the mechanisms behind these behaviors. The researchers will analyze gene coexpression networks to identify key genes that may regulate these behaviors, providing insights into the relationship between diet, genetics, and behavior. This work could help clarify how stress and nutrition impact behavior in various species.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals with conditions characterized by repetitive behaviors, such as autism spectrum disorders or obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Not a fit: Patients who do not exhibit repetitive behaviors or have conditions unrelated to behavioral regulation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new dietary interventions for managing repetitive behaviors in both animals and potentially humans.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been research on diet and behavior, this specific approach using gene coexpression networks in the context of nutritional ketosis is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Honolulu, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.