How house mice adapt to different environments through genetics
Official title: The genomic basis of environmental adaptation in house mice
Funded at University of California Berkeley · NIH-11031336 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how house mice that have moved to the Americas change to fit into different environments by checking their genes, and it aims to help us understand how these changes might connect to traits that are important for both mice and human health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Berkeley NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Berkeley, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $351,875 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM149304-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11031336 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals interested in genetic studies related to environmental adaptation and complex traits.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to genetic adaptation or those not interested in the genetic basis of traits may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how house mice, which have recently migrated to the Americas, adapt to various environmental conditions by examining their genetic makeup. By studying both natural populations and laboratory-bred mice, the project aims to link specific genetic variations to observable traits such as body size, metabolic rates, and blood chemistry. The research utilizes a comprehensive analysis of 28 mouse populations across a wide geographic range, focusing on traits influenced by environmental factors. This approach will enhance our understanding of complex traits that may also relate to human health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide insights into the genetic factors that influence adaptation, which may have implications for understanding human health and disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding genetic adaptation in other species, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Berkeley
Berkeley, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nachman, Michael W. — University of California Berkeley
- Study coordinator: Nachman, Michael W.
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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.