Investigating how chromosomal changes affect adaptation in insects
Official title: Phenotypic and adaptive consequences of chromosomal rearrangements
Funded at Utah State University · NIH-11090779 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how changes in the DNA of different insects, like stick insects and butterflies, help them adapt to their environments, and it aims to uncover how these changes affect their traits and evolution, which could also give us insights into genetic adaptation in other living things, including humans.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Utah State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Logan, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $395,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM158189-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11090779 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals interested in genetics, evolutionary biology, or those affected by conditions related to genetic adaptations.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to genetic adaptation or chromosomal abnormalities may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of chromosomal rearrangements, such as deletions and translocations, in the adaptation of various insect species, including stick insects, seed beetles, and butterflies. By utilizing advanced genomic methods, the project aims to identify how these structural variants contribute to trait variation and the evolutionary processes that maintain them in natural populations. The findings could enhance our understanding of genetic adaptation, which may have broader implications for other organisms, including humans.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the genetic basis of adaptation, potentially informing conservation strategies and agricultural practices.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of chromosomal rearrangements in adaptation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Utah State University
Logan, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gompert, Zachariah — Utah State University
- Study coordinator: Gompert, Zachariah
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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.