Investigating how certain channels in the brain help with sensory adaptation.
Official title: Slo2 channels in Olfactory Adaptation
Funded at Colorado State University · NIH-10823705 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain channels in the brain help us get used to different smells, using fruit flies to see how changing these channels affects their sense of smell, which could help us understand how our own brains adapt to different scents.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Colorado State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fort Collins, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $412,077 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS135729-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10823705 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who may have conditions affecting sensory processing.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with sensory processing issues not related to the mechanisms being studied may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of Na+-activated K+ (KNa/Slo2) channels in sensory adaptation, which is crucial for maintaining sensitivity in our sensory systems. Using the fruit fly Drosophila as a model, the study aims to genetically manipulate the expression of these channels to observe their effects on olfactory adaptation. Researchers will identify specific cells and regions in the brain where these channels operate and assess their impact on neuronal excitability through electrophysiological techniques. This approach could provide insights into how our brains adjust to varying levels of sensory stimulation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of sensory processing and lead to new strategies for addressing sensory-related disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that understanding the mechanisms of sensory adaptation can lead to significant advancements in treating sensory disorders, suggesting a promising avenue for this investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tsunoda, Susan L — Colorado State University
- Study coordinator: Tsunoda, Susan L
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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.