Understanding how father stickleback fish care for their young
MIRA: The biological basis of paternal care in stickleback fish
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN · NIH-11015045
This study looks at how certain genes and brain pathways affect how stickleback fish dads take care of their babies, helping us understand what makes some fathers more nurturing than others.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CHAMPAIGN, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11015045 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the biological mechanisms behind paternal care in stickleback fish, focusing on how specific genes and brain pathways influence the caregiving behavior of fathers. By studying a species where males are solely responsible for nurturing their offspring, researchers aim to identify the genetic factors that contribute to variations in paternal care. The study employs advanced genetic analysis and neurobiological techniques to uncover the molecular substrates that drive these behaviors, providing insights into the evolution of parental care in vertebrates.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include children and families interested in the biological aspects of parenting and child development.
Not a fit: Patients who may not receive benefit from this research include those with no interest in biological or genetic factors influencing parenting behaviors.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of parental behaviors and their biological underpinnings, potentially informing approaches to improve child development and mental health.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding parental care through genetic and neurobiological studies in various species, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
CHAMPAIGN, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN — CHAMPAIGN, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BELL, ALISON MARIE — UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN
- Study coordinator: BELL, ALISON MARIE
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.