Understanding how neurons encode activity through gene expression
Official title: Regulatory Strategies for the Control of Activity-Dependent Gene Expression in a Single Neuron Type
Funded at Brandeis University · NIH-11078657 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain nerve cells in tiny worms remember their activity and change the way they express genes, especially when they experience different temperatures, to help us understand how our own nerve cells work and regulate genes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brandeis University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Waltham, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | September 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $35,323 |
| NIH project number | 5F31NS137615-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11078657 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals interested in the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying neuronal activity and its implications for health.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to neuronal function or gene expression may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how specific sensory neurons in the model organism C. elegans encode their activity history into gene expression profiles. By examining the regulatory mechanisms that translate different patterns of neuronal activity into distinct waves of gene expression, the study aims to uncover the biological processes that govern these changes. The researchers utilize advanced techniques like RNA sequencing to analyze how temperature experiences affect gene expression in these neurons. This work could provide insights into the fundamental principles of neuronal function and gene regulation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of neuronal function and potentially lead to new therapeutic strategies for neurological disorders.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach in this research is novel, similar studies have shown success in understanding gene expression regulation in other neuronal contexts.
Where this research is happening
-
Brandeis University
Waltham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bates, Samuel Gaither — Brandeis University
- Study coordinator: Bates, Samuel Gaither
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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.