How tangential neurons shape early brain wiring
Development and Function of Medulla Tangential Neurons
Researchers are using fruit flies to learn how a special class of neurons that helps organize brain wiring develops and functions, with possible relevance to autism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11305302 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient's viewpoint, scientists will study tiny brain cells called tangential projection neurons to see how they help set up organized layers and long-range connections during development. They will use genetic tools and lineage tracing in the fruit fly visual system to map where these neurons come from and how they influence layering of the optic lobe. The team will examine the role of specific genes, including Plexin A, that help these neurons guide tissue organization. Findings aim to connect basic wiring mechanisms to processes that, when disrupted, are linked to neurodevelopmental conditions like autism.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This is a laboratory project using fruit fly models and does not enroll patients, so people with autism cannot participate directly in the research.
Not a fit: Individuals seeking immediate treatment changes or symptom relief should not expect short-term benefits from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal fundamental wiring mechanisms that help explain early brain differences linked to autism and point to new targets for future research or therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Past Drosophila studies have successfully identified genes and pathways that control neural development, but translating those findings to human autism is still early and exploratory.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- New York University School of Medicine — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Treisman, Jessica E — New York University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Treisman, Jessica E
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.