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Adaptive Neural control of Respiration in Drosophila

Award Number: K99NS146574
ORGANIZATION: NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS AND STROKE
OPDIV: NIH
AWARD CLASS: DISCRETIONARY
AWARD ACTIVITY TYPE: TRAINING/TRAINEESHIP
PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE START DATE: 03/17/2026
PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE END DATE: 02/29/2028

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Adaptive Neural control of Respiration in Drosophila - Project Summary Energy-intensive behaviors demand high oxygen supply, presenting a fundamental physiological challenge across the animal kingdom. Respiratory organs have evolved diverse forms - from insect spiracles to fish gills to human lungs. Yet their neural control systems serve a conserved purpose. They need to actively monitor respiratory gases and regulate both gas exchange and energy consumption during behavior. The neural mechanisms coordinating respiration with behavior remain poorly understood. In particular, we know little about how respiratory circuits interact with motor control systems during varying metabolic demands. Here I propose to investigate the neural basis of respiratory control during behavior. I have made two important discoveries that uniquely position me to investigate the neural control of respiration. I have identified the complete set of motor neurons controlling respiration in flies, and I have discovered novel gas- sensing neurons in muscles and respiratory tracts that detect respiratory state and modulate behavior. I have made genetic drivers that label both populations of neurons. With these advantages, I will investigate three fundamental aspects of respiratory control by combining genetics, connectomics, behavioral tracking, and in vivo imaging. First, I will examine the neuromuscular basis of respiratory control during locomotion. Second, I will investigate interoceptive mechanisms of respiratory gas sensing. Third, I will study the neural integration of respiratory and metabolic signals. This work will reveal how animals optimize respiratory control while maintaining homeostasis during behavior. The principles uncovered in this tractable system will provide an experimental and conceptual framework for studying respiratory control across species. My long-term goal is to establish an independent research program on neural control of respiration and energy homeostasis. The research and career development in this proposal will provide essential experimental, theoretical, and mentorship training. To support my transition to independence, I will be co-mentored by two experts at the University of Washington: Dr. John Tuthill, an expert on sensorimotor control in flies, and Dr. Jan-Marino Ramirez, an expert on mammalian respiratory control.


Issue Date FY	Funding FY	Legal Entity Name	Legal Entity Address	Legal Entity City	Legal Entity State	Legal Entity Zip Code	Legal Entity COUNTY	Legal Entity COUNTRY	Assistance Listing	Award Code	Budget Year	Action Date	Action Type	Action Amount

Issue Date FY: 2026 ( Subtotal = $122,769 )
2026	2026	UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON	4333 BROOKLYN AVE NE	SEATTLE	WA	98195	KING	USA	Extramural Research Programs in the Neurosciences and Neurological Disorders	000	1	3/19/2026	NEW	$122,769
														Subtotal = $122,769

Grand Total All Awards = $122,769

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Adaptive Neural control of Respiration in Drosophila

Award Number: K99NS146574

ORGANIZATION: NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS AND STROKE

OPDIV: NIH

AWARD CLASS: DISCRETIONARY

AWARD ACTIVITY TYPE: TRAINING/TRAINEESHIP

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE START DATE: 03/17/2026

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE END DATE: 02/29/2028

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