Understanding the genetics of fruit flies and their evolution
Official title: Evolutionary Genetics of Drosophila
Funded at Cornell University · NIH-11049186 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how different species of fruit flies interact genetically, especially focusing on what causes some hybrids to not survive and how certain genetic factors can affect fertility, which might help us understand more about genetics in general.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cornell University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ithaca, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $386,755 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM153275-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11049186 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals interested in genetic studies or those affected by fertility issues linked to genetic factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to genetic mechanisms or those not interested in evolutionary genetics may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the evolutionary genetics of Drosophila, commonly known as fruit flies, by exploring the genetic interactions that lead to hybrid incompatibilities between different species. The study focuses on identifying maternal factors that contribute to hybrid lethality and examining the phenomenon of meiotic drive, which affects fertility and species isolation. By utilizing advanced genetic and genomic methods, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind chromosome instability and the prevalence of meiotic drive in natural populations. Patients may benefit from insights gained in this research that could inform broader genetic studies and applications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of genetic mechanisms that may have implications for fertility and species conservation.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has successfully utilized Drosophila as a model organism to uncover significant genetic insights, indicating that this approach is well-established and promising.
Where this research is happening
-
Cornell University
Ithaca, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Barbash, Daniel a — Cornell University
- Study coordinator: Barbash, Daniel a
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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.