Understanding how a specific protein influences neuron identity in fruit flies
Official title: Mechanisms and functions of the transcription factor broad as a terminal selector in the fly visual system
Funded at Drexel University · NIH-11071204 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a special protein in fruit flies that helps shape the identity of certain brain cells involved in vision, and by understanding how it works, we hope to learn more about how similar processes might affect brain function in people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Drexel University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | December 15, 2024 |
| Project end | December 14, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 1F31NS132578-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11071204 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research would be individuals with neurological disorders or conditions related to neuronal identity and function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to neuronal identity or those not affected by neurological disorders may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a protein called broad, which is believed to help define the identity of certain neurons in the visual system of fruit flies. By using advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing, the researchers aim to uncover how this protein affects neuron characteristics such as shape, gene expression, and connections with other cells. The study focuses on understanding these mechanisms in a model organism, which could provide insights into similar processes in humans. Patients may benefit from the findings as they could lead to better understanding of neuronal identity and function in the human brain.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of neuronal identity, potentially leading to new treatments for neurological conditions.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of studying the broad protein in fruit flies is novel, similar research has successfully identified key factors influencing neuron identity in other contexts.
Where this research is happening
-
Drexel University
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Smolin, Natalie — Drexel University
- Study coordinator: Smolin, Natalie
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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.