Understanding how nerve cells develop and connect in the brain
Official title: Translational control of a complete developing sensory circuit
Funded at New York University · NIH-10975025 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how nerve cells grow and connect in the brain, using fruit flies to understand the genes that help control these changes, which could eventually help us find better ways to treat brain diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $74,284 |
| NIH project number | 5F32EY035122-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10975025 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals under 21 years old who may be affected by neurodegenerative disorders or have a family history of such conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with fully developed nervous systems and no neurological disorders may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex processes involved in the development of nerve cells, focusing on how they change shape and function to form networks in the brain. By using the Drosophila visual system as a model, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms of gene regulation that control the development and maintenance of these cells. The approach involves advanced techniques in transcriptomics and epigenetics to analyze how specific RNA-binding proteins and microRNAs influence nerve cell behavior. Insights gained could lead to better strategies for treating neurodegenerative disorders linked to these processes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative disorders by improving our understanding of nerve cell development.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in using model organisms like Drosophila to uncover fundamental principles of neural development, suggesting this approach is promising.
Where this research is happening
-
New York University
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Loker, Ryan E — New York University
- Study coordinator: Loker, Ryan E
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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.