Understanding how mRNA localization affects neuron development in fruit flies
Official title: Interrogating spatiotemporal control of mRNA in Drosophila morphogenesis using Cas13-based techniques
Funded at Princeton University · NIH-10902691 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the timing and location of mRNA production affects the growth and function of nerve cells, especially in diseases like ALS, using fruit flies to help us understand how mRNA moves within these cells and what happens when it doesn't work properly.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Princeton University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Princeton, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $53,974 |
| NIH project number | 1F30NS137764-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10902691 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research are individuals affected by neurodegenerative diseases, particularly those with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to mRNA localization or those not experiencing neurodegenerative diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the localization and timing of mRNA production influence the development and function of neurons, particularly in the context of diseases like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. By using fruit flies as a model organism, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind the transport of mRNA to specific parts of neurons, which is crucial for their proper morphology and function. The research employs advanced techniques, including CRISPR-based methods, to manipulate and observe mRNA behavior in living cells. This could provide insights into how disruptions in mRNA localization contribute to neurological disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases, potentially informing new therapeutic strategies.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of using Drosophila to study mRNA localization in neuronal development is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in understanding the role of mRNA in other biological processes.
Where this research is happening
-
Princeton University
Princeton, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcmanus, Elizabeth — Princeton University
- Study coordinator: Mcmanus, Elizabeth
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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.