How diet affects senses and behavior, especially for new mothers
Genetic analysis of state-dependent chemosensory processing
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · NIH-11168877
This work explores how the nutrients we eat, like amino acids from protein, might change our senses and natural behaviors, particularly in new mothers.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11168877 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
We are looking into how the body senses nutrients from food and how this sensing affects our responses to smells and tastes, as well as our natural behaviors. Protein-rich foods are known to be good for new mothers, providing energy and building blocks for cells, and potentially improving mood. This project uses fruit flies as a model to understand how amino acids from food might send signals that change brain function and behavior. By studying specialized cells in the gut that release hormones based on nutrients, we hope to uncover these complex connections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve human participants, but its findings could eventually benefit postpartum mothers and others interested in how diet affects mood and behavior.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical treatment or direct participation in a human clinical trial would not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help us better understand how diet influences mood and behavior, potentially leading to new ways to support postpartum mothers.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary data from this team suggests that a high-protein diet can influence recovery in mated female fruit flies, indicating a promising direction for this line of inquiry.
Where this research is happening
LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO — LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SU, CHIH-YING — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO
- Study coordinator: SU, CHIH-YING
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 below.