Understanding how certain receptors affect the glowing of red tide algae
Official title: The Role of G Protein-coupled Receptors in Red Tide Dinoflagellate Bioluminescence
Funded at University of South Florida · NIH-10708533 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain receptors in a type of glowing algae called Lingulodinium polyedra help it light up, especially during red tide events, and it aims to find out how things like ocean waves and predators affect this glowing ability, which could help us understand the impact of red tides on coastal areas.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tampa, United States) |
| Project start | August 23, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $406,843 |
| NIH project number | 1R21ES035378-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10708533 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in coastal areas affected by red tide blooms or those who consume seafood from these regions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not live near coastal areas or do not consume seafood are unlikely to benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) in the bioluminescence of dinoflagellates, specifically focusing on the species Lingulodinium polyedra, which is known for causing red tide events. The study aims to understand how these receptors contribute to the algae's ability to glow, which may be influenced by environmental factors like wave turbulence and predator behavior. By using advanced techniques such as anti-sense DNA oligonucleotide knockdown experiments, researchers will identify specific receptors involved in this bioluminescent signaling pathway. This work could provide insights into the ecological impacts of red tides and their effects on coastal communities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and management of red tide events, potentially reducing their harmful effects on coastal ecosystems and human health.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on GPCRs in dinoflagellate bioluminescence is novel, related research on GPCRs in other biological contexts has shown promising results.
Where this research is happening
-
University of South Florida
Tampa, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ye, Libin — University of South Florida
- Study coordinator: Ye, Libin
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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.