Understanding how synapses communicate in the nervous system
Official title: Generating functional diversity from molecular homogeneity at glutamatergic synapses
Funded at University of Southern California · NIH-10993649 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how nerve cells communicate with each other in fruit flies to understand why they can work in different ways, which could help us learn more about brain conditions that affect people.
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) | $354,619 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS126654-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10993649 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder, or neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute neurological injuries or those not diagnosed with the targeted neurodevelopmental or neurodegenerative conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind synaptic communication in the nervous system, focusing on how diversity in synaptic function arises from a limited set of molecular components. By using a model system in fruit flies, the study aims to explore how different genes contribute to the unique properties of synapses. The researchers will employ advanced techniques to selectively silence specific synaptic inputs, 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 function and diversity, indicating that this approach has the potential for significant breakthroughs.
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.