Understanding how gut signals are sensed by pharyngeal neurons in a tiny worm
Official title: Establishing sensory functions of pharyngeal enteric neurons in C. elegans
Funded at Brandeis University · NIH-11416533 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers will study how the enteric neurons in the pharynx of C. elegans detect internal signals to help regulate the worm’s behavior and body functions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brandeis University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Waltham, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2025 |
| Project end | June 30, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $756,665 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK142077-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11416533 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Not applicable to patient recruitment for this basic science study as described.
✕Less likely to help
This basic research in worms does not involve direct patient participation or treatment.
What this research studies
This project uses the model organism C. elegans to uncover how internal bodily signals are detected by enteric neurons in the pharynx. By examining three sensory modes—high salt sensing, a potential bacterial metabolite signal, and an internal proprioceptive cue linked to foregut movement—the team will map receptors and circuits involved. The work combines multiple labs’ expertise to understand how these signals influence gut function and overall physiology. Findings could illuminate fundamental processes of interoception that may be relevant across species, including humans.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Gaining insight into the core biology of how internal bodily signals are sensed could inform future approaches to gut motility and related disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work in model organisms has shown that enteric circuits influence physiology, suggesting this line of research could yield meaningful insights.
Where this research is happening
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Brandeis University
Waltham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sengupta, Piali — Brandeis University
- Study coordinator: Sengupta, Piali
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.