How Social Experiences Shape Behavior Through Gene Changes
Epigenetic control of behavior
This research explores how social experiences can change gene activity and influence behavior, using ants as a model to understand these processes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11124839 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project looks at how social interactions, like winning or losing in a group, can lead to lasting changes in behavior by affecting how genes work. We are using a special type of ant, Harpegnathos saltator, because they can change their social role and behavior as adults, which is linked to changes in their genes and brain. By studying these ants, we hope to learn more about how social life can physically alter the brain and behavior. This could help us understand similar processes in humans related to conditions like autism and behavior disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve human participants, but its findings may eventually be relevant to adults experiencing autistic disorder or other behavior disorders.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct participation in a clinical trial will not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this basic science could provide fundamental insights into how social experiences influence brain function and behavior, potentially informing future approaches for human behavioral disorders.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of Harpegnathos saltator ants as a model for epigenetic control of social behavior is novel, the broader field of epigenetics and behavior is an active area of research.
Where this research is happening
Dallas, United States
- Ut Southwestern Medical Center — Dallas, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gospocic, Janko — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Gospocic, Janko
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.