Understanding how genes control neuron types in the brain
Official title: Gene Regulatory Networks of Synaptic Specificity
Funded at Stowers Institute for Medical Research · NIH-11092867 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how genes help shape different types of brain cells in fruit flies, which can teach us about our own brains, and it hopes to find ways to change one type of brain cell into another, which could help us understand brain function and recovery better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stowers Institute for Medical Research NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Kansas City, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2022 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $249,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R00NS125117-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11092867 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who have experienced an acquired brain injury.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable, non-progressive neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic mechanisms that determine the identity and function of different types of neurons in the brain. By studying the Drosophila visual system, which shares similarities with human brain structures, the researchers aim to identify specific transcription factors that dictate neuronal characteristics. Using advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing, they will explore how these factors can be manipulated to change one type of neuron into another, potentially leading to new insights into brain function and recovery from injury.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies for brain injuries by enabling the regeneration or reprogramming of neurons.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in manipulating neuronal identity, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements in understanding brain function.
Where this research is happening
-
Stowers Institute for Medical Research
Kansas City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ozel, Mehmet Neset — Stowers Institute for Medical Research
- Study coordinator: Ozel, Mehmet Neset
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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.