Understanding how cell patterns form in the Drosophila eye
Official title: Hedgehog Signaling Coordinates Stochastic and Stereotyped Patterns in the Drosophila Eye
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11012333 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how cells in the eyes of fruit flies grow in both regular and unexpected ways, focusing on a special signal that helps them develop properly, which could help us understand how our own eyes and other tissues form.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $76,756 |
| NIH project number | 5F32EY034378-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11012333 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be individuals interested in the genetic and developmental mechanisms underlying sensory organ formation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to developmental biology or sensory organ function may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind how cells in the Drosophila eye develop in both predictable and random patterns. By using the Drosophila eye as a model, the study aims to uncover how gene regulatory mechanisms are adjusted to create these distinct patterns within the same tissue. The research focuses on the role of Hedgehog signaling in driving the development of photoreceptors, which are essential for vision. This work could provide insights into the fundamental processes of cell differentiation and tissue development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of developmental biology, potentially leading to advances in regenerative medicine and treatments for vision-related disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding developmental mechanisms in model organisms, indicating that this approach is grounded in established scientific principles.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ordway, Alison J — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Ordway, Alison J
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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.