Understanding how the brain's coding networks are formed during development
Official title: The assembly of population coding networks
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11010377 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the nervous system of fruit fly larvae builds networks that help them sense and understand their surroundings, focusing on the role of specific genes, which could help us learn more about how brains develop and work.
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 | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $355,016 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS128500-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11010377 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals interested in the genetic and developmental aspects of brain function, particularly those with conditions related to sensory processing or neurological disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with established neurological conditions that do not involve developmental aspects of brain function may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the nervous system develops population coding networks (PCNs) that help represent sensory stimuli and generate perceptions. Using Drosophila larvae as a model organism, the study aims to uncover the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in assembling these networks. By focusing on the role of Hox genes, the research seeks to understand how different neurons contribute to the same brain function despite their physiological differences. This could provide insights into the fundamental processes of brain development and function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of brain development and potentially lead to new strategies for addressing neurological disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown success in using Drosophila as a model for understanding neural networks, indicating that this approach has potential for yielding valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ye, Bing — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Ye, Bing
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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.