Understanding how brain circuits in fruit flies regulate behavior

Models of Neuromodulatory Circuits in Drosophila

NIH-funded research University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10437744

This study is looking at how certain brain cells in fruit flies affect their behavior, which could help us learn more about how similar brain circuits work in humans.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Los Angeles NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-10437744 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the neuromodulatory circuits in fruit flies (Drosophila) to understand how specific neurons influence behavior. By utilizing advanced genetic tools, the researchers will map the activity of aminergic neurons and their connections to other cells, allowing for a detailed analysis of how these circuits function. The study aims to uncover the complexities of these circuits, which may provide insights into similar processes in more complex organisms, including humans.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals with behavioral disorders or conditions related to neuromodulation.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to neuromodulation or those not affected by behavioral disorders may not receive benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the treatment of behavioral disorders and mental health conditions.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in using model organisms like fruit flies to understand complex neural circuits, indicating that this approach is promising.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.