Understanding how neurons connect in the brain
Official title: The molecular basis of synaptic specificity
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-11325163 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how brain cells connect with each other, which is important for how we behave, using fruit flies to understand the process better, and it could help us learn more about conditions like autism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $551,250 |
| NIH project number | 1R56NS138435-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11325163 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with autism spectrum disorders or related neurological conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurological conditions unrelated to synaptic connectivity or those without autism spectrum disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular mechanisms that dictate how neurons form specific connections in the brain, which are crucial for behavior. By utilizing advanced genetic and imaging techniques in the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, the study aims to map out the intricate patterns of synaptic connections. Researchers will tag specific proteins to observe their distribution at synapses, helping to reveal how neurons choose their partners for connection. This work could provide insights into the genetic basis of neurological conditions, including autism spectrum disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of the biological underpinnings of autism and other neurological conditions, potentially informing new treatment strategies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in using genetic and imaging techniques to study synaptic connections, indicating that this approach is promising and builds on established methodologies.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zipursky, S. Lawrence — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Zipursky, S. Lawrence
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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.