Investigating gene changes in fruit flies to understand ALS
Official title: Behavioral and Molecular Alterations in Drosophila with Modulated IK2/TBK1 Gene Expressions
Funded at Texas A&m University-Kingsville · NIH-11079624 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain gene changes might lead to ALS by using fruit flies to see how these changes affect their nervous system, which could help us find new ways to treat the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Texas A&m University-Kingsville NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Kingsville, United States) |
| Project start | April 25, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $129,960 |
| NIH project number | 5R16NS140311-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11079624 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with ALS, particularly those with known mutations in the TBK1 gene.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with ALS who do not have mutations in the TBK1 gene or those with other unrelated neurodegenerative conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of specific gene mutations in the development of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) using fruit flies as a model. By manipulating the expression of the TBK1 gene and its counterpart IK2 in Drosophila, researchers aim to uncover how these genetic changes affect nervous system function and contribute to ALS. The study employs genetic analysis and various cellular and molecular techniques to assess behavioral and physiological alterations in the fruit flies, providing insights that could inform future ALS treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of ALS mechanisms, potentially paving the way for new therapeutic strategies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using Drosophila models has successfully provided insights into neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach has the potential for meaningful discoveries.
Where this research is happening
-
Texas A&m University-Kingsville
Kingsville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: He, Fang — Texas A&m University-Kingsville
- Study coordinator: He, Fang
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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.