Understanding the genetics behind aggression in fish
Official title: Evolutionary approaches to identify genetic architecture regulating aggression
Funded at Lehigh University · NIH-11135763 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how genetic differences affect aggressive behavior by using blind Mexican cavefish, and it aims to find out which genes are linked to aggression, which could help us understand similar traits in other animals, including people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Lehigh University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bethlehem, United States) |
| Project start | August 20, 2020 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $76,149 |
| NIH project number | 3R35GM138345-06S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11135763 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with a keen interest in behavioral genetics or those affected by aggression-related disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have an interest in genetic research or those whose conditions are unrelated to aggression may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how genetic variations contribute to differences in aggressive behavior, using the blind Mexican cavefish as a model organism. By examining natural populations, the study aims to uncover the genetic architecture that influences aggression and how these traits have evolved over time. The research employs advanced genetic mapping techniques to identify and validate candidate genes associated with aggression, potentially offering insights applicable to other species, including humans.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of the genetic factors influencing aggression, which may inform treatment strategies for related behavioral issues in humans.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has successfully utilized genetic mapping in model organisms to understand behavioral traits, suggesting that this approach is promising and not entirely novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Lehigh University
Bethlehem, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kowalko, Johanna E. — Lehigh University
- Study coordinator: Kowalko, Johanna E.
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
How sex differences affect the rewarding feel of aggression in the brain
This grant explores why aggressive experiences feel more rewarding in females and how specific brain circuits and chemical signals shape this in both sexes.
-
Metabolic therapy to reduce aggression and improve sociability in Alzheimer’s disease models
A ketogenic diet and adenosine biology are explored to see if they can lessen aggression and improve social behavior in models related to Alzheimer’s disease.
-
Genomic keys to juvenile aggression in kids and animals
A study using a novel animal model to uncover genomic factors that influence violent aggression in young individuals, with potential insights for understanding and preventing harmful behavior.
-
Men's drinking and sexual risk behaviors: alcohol, aggression, and emotions
A study with 21–30 year old men who drink and have condom-use challenges will look at how alcohol, aggression history, and emotions relate to risky sexual behavior.
-
Sex differences in brain circuits that control aggression
This project looks at how brain networks that drive aggressive behavior may differ between sexes, with the goal of understanding why aggression patterns differ and how they might be treated.
-
Understanding how genes and environment influence aggressive behavior in teens and young adults
A study looks at how genetic factors and experiences during childhood interact to shape aggressive behavior in adolescents and young adults, with potential implications for better treatments.
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.