Understanding the genetic and neural factors behind how fathers care for their young
Official title: Genetic and neural mechanisms of paternal care behavior
Funded at Texas A&m University · NIH-11135467 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how genes and the environment affect how male darters, a type of fish, take care of their young, helping us understand more about why some dads are more involved than others.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Texas A&m University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (College Station, United States) |
| Project start | July 9, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $376,848 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM154624-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11135467 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be individuals interested in the genetic and behavioral aspects of parenting, particularly in species where paternal care is observed.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who may not receive benefit from this research include those not involved in or affected by animal behavior studies or those with no interest in genetic influences on behavior.
What this research studies
This research investigates how genetic and environmental factors influence paternal care behavior in a specific group of fish known as darters. By utilizing advanced genetic mapping techniques and behavioral analysis, the study aims to uncover the biological mechanisms that drive differences in how male darters care for their offspring. The research will explore the evolutionary history of these behaviors, providing insights into the genetic variants that contribute to paternal care. This could help bridge the gap in understanding the less-studied aspects of paternal behavior compared to maternal care.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of parental behaviors, potentially informing conservation efforts and breeding programs for species exhibiting paternal care.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding maternal care behaviors through genetic studies, but this focus on paternal care in darters is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Texas A&m University
College Station, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Moran, Rachel — Texas A&m University
- Study coordinator: Moran, Rachel
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.