Understanding how the tiny worm C. elegans senses gravity
Official title: Identifying molecular mechanisms of responding to gravity using the nematode C. elegans
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10988638 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny worms sense gravity and respond to it, which could help us learn more about balance and movement problems in people, especially those with Parkinson's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $235,938 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG085030-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10988638 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include elderly individuals and those with Parkinson's disease who are at risk of falls.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to balance or mobility issues may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular and neural mechanisms that allow the nematode C. elegans to sense and respond to gravity. By utilizing this simple organism, researchers aim to uncover how specific neurons and neurotransmitters contribute to gravity perception. The study employs genetic manipulation and optogenetic tools to explore the roles of different neuron types in gravity response. Insights gained from this research could enhance our understanding of balance and mobility issues in humans, particularly in those with conditions like Parkinson's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing falls and improving mobility in individuals with balance disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in using model organisms like C. elegans to uncover fundamental biological mechanisms, suggesting this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Raizen, David Menassah — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Raizen, David Menassah
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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.