Investigating neurotransmitter receptors in brain circuits using fruit flies
Screening using split fluorescent protein tags for neurotransmitter receptors that define a synaptic balance in neuralcircuits
This study is looking at how certain brain receptors help keep our brain's signals balanced, using fruit flies to see where these receptors are located, which could help us understand how problems with them might affect brain development and function.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Georgia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Athens, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10805112 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how neurotransmitter receptors contribute to the balance of excitation and inhibition in neural circuits. By using fruit flies, researchers will develop a method to tag these receptors with fluorescent proteins, allowing them to visualize and study their distribution in the brain. This approach aims to uncover how disruptions in these receptors can affect brain development and function. The study will utilize advanced imaging techniques to analyze the localization of neurotransmitter receptors in relation to dendritic branches.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurological conditions that may involve neurotransmitter receptor dysfunction.
Not a fit: Patients without neurological disorders or those not affected by neurotransmitter imbalances may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into brain disorders related to neurotransmitter imbalances, potentially informing future treatments.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of using split fluorescent proteins in Drosophila is innovative, similar methodologies have shown promise in other studies investigating neurotransmitter systems.
Where this research is happening
Athens, United States
- University of Georgia — Athens, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kamiyama, Daichi — University of Georgia
- Study coordinator: Kamiyama, Daichi
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 below.