Understanding how fruit flies adapt to changing temperatures

Evolution and underlying genetics of thermal physiology and behavior in Drosophila

NIH-funded research Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-11088697

This study looks at how fruit flies from São Tomé cope with climate change by examining their ability to handle different temperatures and what genes help them adapt, so we can better understand how these little creatures survive in a warming world.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chapel Hill, United States)
Project IDNIH-11088697 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how fruit flies, specifically those from São Tomé, adapt to climate change by studying their thermal tolerance and preferences. The project combines historical data with modern genomic techniques to explore the genetic factors that influence how these flies respond to temperature changes. By conducting experiments on the thermal niches and genetic makeup of different Drosophila species, the research aims to uncover the biological mechanisms that allow these animals to survive in a warming world.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are scientists and conservationists interested in the effects of climate change on species adaptation.

Not a fit: Patients with no interest in ecological or evolutionary biology may not find direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide insights into how species adapt to climate change, which may inform conservation strategies and improve our understanding of biodiversity.

How similar studies have performed: Similar research has shown success in understanding species adaptation to environmental changes, making this approach both relevant and promising.

Where this research is happening

Chapel Hill, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.