Neural pathways that control energy use and reproduction in a model fly
Official title: Neural Substrates Controlling Metabolic and Reproductive State
Funded at University of Nevada Las Vegas · NIH-11380546 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers are studying how the brain of fruit flies controls energy use and reproductive state, with potential insights for human metabolic conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Nevada Las Vegas NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Las Vegas, United States) |
| Project start | July 14, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $188,227 |
| NIH project number | 5R16GM150433-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11380546 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Not applicable to a specific patient group today; foundational research in animal models.
✕Less likely to help
Direct clinical benefits to patients are not immediate from this basic fly study.
What this research studies
This project uses fruit flies to map how the brain shifts metabolic and reproductive states in response to the environment. By combining genetic tools and high-resolution analysis, scientists aim to outline a neural network that toggles energy conservation and reproduction. The work could shed light on basic brain mechanisms that may relate to human metabolic disorders and reproductive biology. Results could guide future research into how the nervous system influences metabolism across species, including people.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Better understanding of brain circuits could inform future treatments for metabolic and reproductive health in humans.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies in model organisms have mapped neural control of metabolism; this project builds on that approach with advanced genetic tools.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Nevada Las Vegas
Las Vegas, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Meiselman, Matthew Ramiah — University of Nevada Las Vegas
- Study coordinator: Meiselman, Matthew Ramiah
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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.