Understanding how mobile genetic elements affect animal development
Official title: Investigating the Molecular Basis of Transposon Regulation and Function in Animal Development
Funded at University of California Riverside · NIH-11087652 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at tiny pieces of DNA that can move around and change how our genes work, especially during the early stages of development, to see how they can both help and hurt our genetic makeup, using fruit flies as a model to learn more about their effects on evolution and genetic differences.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Riverside NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Riverside, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $388,750 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM151016-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11087652 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with genetic conditions linked to transposable elements or those interested in the genetic basis of developmental disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to genetic regulation or transposable elements may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates transposable elements (TEs), which are mobile genetic components that can move within DNA and influence how genomes are organized and function. The study focuses on the mechanisms that regulate TEs, particularly their role in embryonic development and how they can both harm and benefit genetic integrity. By examining these elements in model organisms like Drosophila, the research aims to uncover the balance between TE activity and the silencing mechanisms that protect the genome. This could provide insights into the evolutionary significance of TEs and their impact on genetic variation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of genetic regulation and its implications for developmental biology and fertility.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding transposable elements can lead to significant advancements in genetics and developmental biology, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Riverside
Riverside, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ninova, Maria Antoninova — University of California Riverside
- Study coordinator: Ninova, Maria Antoninova
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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.