Investigating how neuropeptides affect feeding in crabs.
Official title: Elucidating the Neuropeptidome Implicated in Crustacean Feeding Processes through Multiplexed Data-Independent Acquisition Mass Spectrometry
Funded at University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-10996413 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain tiny molecules called neuropeptides help crabs, specifically the Cancer borealis species, eat and behave, and by understanding this better, we might learn something useful about similar processes in humans.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $37,165 |
| NIH project number | 1F31GM156104-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10996413 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research would be individuals with eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia, as well as researchers in related fields.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no interest in neurobiology or those not affected by eating disorders may not find direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of neuropeptides, which are important signaling molecules, in the feeding processes of crabs, specifically the Cancer borealis species. By using advanced mass spectrometry techniques, the study aims to identify and quantify these neuropeptides to better understand their functions and interactions. The research seeks to overcome challenges related to the low abundance of neuropeptides and the complexity of their interactions, providing a comprehensive view of how they influence feeding behavior. Insights gained from this study could have implications for understanding similar processes in humans.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into feeding behaviors that may inform treatments for eating disorders in humans.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach using crustaceans is novel, similar studies on neuropeptides in other models have shown promising results.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fields, Lauren — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Fields, Lauren
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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.