Understanding how energy factories in nerve cells connect to their outer layer in fruit flies
Mitochondrial Interactions with the Plasmamembrane: Genetic Underpinnings and Functional Consequences at Drosophila Nerve Terminals
['FUNDING_R01'] · TULANE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA · NIH-11187245
This project explores how tiny energy-producing parts of nerve cells, called mitochondria, interact with the cell's outer membrane, which is important for how our nerves work.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | TULANE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW ORLEANS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11187245 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our nerve cells rely heavily on mitochondria, which are like tiny power plants, to create the energy needed for sending messages and maintaining balance. When mitochondria don't work properly, it can contribute to many brain and nerve diseases. This project uses fruit flies to closely look at how mitochondria connect with the outer layer of nerve cells, especially at nerve endings where a lot of energy is used. By understanding these connections and their genetic controls, we hope to learn more about how nerve cells stay healthy and function correctly.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This basic science project uses fruit flies to understand fundamental biological processes, so it does not directly involve human patients.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical treatments or direct participation opportunities will not find direct benefit from this foundational laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this foundational work could lead to a better understanding of how nerve cells function and how mitochondrial problems contribute to neurodegenerative diseases, potentially guiding future treatments.
How similar studies have performed: While the overall concept builds on existing knowledge of mitochondrial function, this project proposes novel methods, including a new form of super-resolution imaging, to investigate these specific interactions.
Where this research is happening
NEW ORLEANS, UNITED STATES
- TULANE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA — NEW ORLEANS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MACLEOD, GREGORY TALISKER — TULANE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA
- Study coordinator: MACLEOD, GREGORY TALISKER
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.