Understanding how synapses communicate and diversify in the nervous system
Official title: Generating functional diversity from molecular homogeneity at glutamatergic synapses
Funded at University of Southern California · NIH-11084314 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny connections in the brain, called synapses, can work in different ways even though they use the same building blocks, and it’s using fruit flies to see how changing certain genes affects these connections, which could help us understand more about brain conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | December 1, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $73,040 |
| NIH project number | 3R01NS126654-03S2 |
| Project ID | NIH-11084314 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals affected by neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder, or neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to synaptic function or those not experiencing neurodevelopmental or neurodegenerative diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which synapses, the communication points in the nervous system, achieve functional diversity despite having a limited set of molecular components. By using a model organism, the fruit fly, researchers will employ advanced genetic and imaging techniques to explore how different combinations of genes can influence synaptic function. The study aims to selectively silence specific synaptic inputs using a unique Botulinum NeuroToxin, allowing for a clearer understanding of how synaptic diversity is generated and its implications for various neurological conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the treatment of neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases, potentially improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding synaptic diversity through similar genetic and electrophysiological approaches, indicating that this study builds on established methodologies.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dickman, Dion Kai — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Dickman, Dion Kai
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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.