Understanding how C. elegans worms coordinate their movements in groups.
Emergent Behavior in a Dish: Discovery of Bi-directional Spiraling as a Population Phenomenon in C. elegans Enables In-Depth Dissection of Mechanisms Underlying Group Behaviors
['FUNDING_CAREER'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-10894308
This study looks at how groups of tiny worms called C. elegans move together in sync when they sense changes in their surroundings, helping us learn more about how they communicate and work as a team.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_CAREER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10894308 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how groups of C. elegans worms exhibit coordinated movement in response to environmental cues. By observing these worms in a controlled setting, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind their emergent group behaviors, such as synchronized spiraling. The approach involves manipulating the environment and observing the worms' responses, providing insights into how individual actions contribute to collective behavior. This could enhance our understanding of communication and interaction in biological systems.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals interested in the biological mechanisms of behavior and communication.
Not a fit: Patients with no interest in biological research or those not affected by behavioral disorders may not find direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding group behavior in various organisms, potentially informing treatments for conditions related to social behavior in humans.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in studying group behaviors in various species, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO — SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: PERSSON, LAURA — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO
- Study coordinator: PERSSON, LAURA
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.