Understanding how neurons develop over time in the brain
Official title: Mechanisms of Neuronal Temporal Fate
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11127688 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how brain cells are made during development by using fruit flies, and it hopes to find clues that could help us understand brain development in humans and improve treatments for brain-related conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $542,963 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS134890-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11127688 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with neurological conditions or developmental disorders related to brain function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute neurological injuries or conditions unrelated to developmental processes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms that determine how neurons are formed during brain development, using the fruit fly Drosophila as a model. By studying the temporal patterning of neural stem cells in flies, the researchers aim to uncover insights that may apply to mammalian brain development, including humans. The study focuses on specific proteins that regulate the timing of neuron formation and how these processes are conserved across species. The findings could lead to a better understanding of brain development and potential therapeutic strategies for neurological conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of brain development and lead to new treatments for neurological disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using Drosophila as a model has successfully revealed fundamental mechanisms of brain development, suggesting that this approach is promising.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lee, Tzumin — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Lee, Tzumin
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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.