Investigating gene mutations related to seizures in fruit flies
Official title: Mutational scanning of seizure-related gene para in fruit flies
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-10974019 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain changes in a gene linked to seizures might affect health, using fruit flies to find out which changes are harmful and which are not, to help us better understand seizure disorders and improve genetic advice for families.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | December 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $76,756 |
| NIH project number | 5F32HG013282-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10974019 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a family history of seizure disorders or those who have experienced unexplained seizures.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with seizure disorders that are not linked to genetic mutations may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how specific mutations in the para gene, which is related to seizures, can affect health. By using a method called deep mutational scanning, the researchers will analyze a large number of gene variants in fruit flies to determine which mutations are harmful and which are harmless. This approach allows for the study of mutations in a whole organism, providing insights that are more relevant to human health. The findings could help clarify the role of these mutations in seizure disorders and improve genetic counseling.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better identification of pathogenic mutations, improving diagnosis and treatment options for patients with seizure disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using similar deep mutational scanning techniques has successfully classified mutations in other genes, indicating a promising approach for this study.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Oi, Curran — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Oi, Curran
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.