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Gene-regulatory mechanisms of neuronal circuit formation in Drosophila

Award Number: K99NS146609
ORGANIZATION: NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS AND STROKE
OPDIV: NIH
AWARD CLASS: DISCRETIONARY
AWARD ACTIVITY TYPE: TRAINING/TRAINEESHIP
PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE START DATE: 03/09/2026
PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE END DATE: 02/28/2028

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Gene-regulatory mechanisms of neuronal circuit formation in Drosophila - Project Summary/Abstract Brain function depends on the precise assembly of neural circuits during development, but the gene-regulatory principles that govern how neuronal lineages integrate into functional circuits remain poorly understood. Using the Drosophila Ventral Nerve Cord (VNC) as a model, this project investigates how specific neuronal lineages assemble into circuits, focusing on the Jump Circuit—a key and conserved pathway for escape behavior. Aim 1 (K99) will explore how neuronal identity influences connectivity within the jump circuit. I hypothesize that segment-specific morphologies, regulated by neuronal identity, enable interactions between interneurons and the motor neuron controlling the jump response. I will employ genetic manipulation, expansion microscopy, and single-cell RNAseq data to link neuronal identities to their transcriptomes and connectivity patterns, ultimately determining if segmental identity genes regulate motor neuron connectivity. My collaborators Drs. Jefferis and Tillberg will help me develop the technical expertise to complete this aim. Aim 2 (K99) seeks to map the composition and function of the jump circuit. In collaboration with Dr. Azevedo, I will generate a complete synapse-resolution map of the jump circuit and analyze the role of neuronal activity in circuit formation and function. This aim will reveal whether early neurotransmission is crucial for proper circuit assembly and maturation. Aim 3 (R00) will investigate how epigenetic factors regulate neuronal identity during circuit formation. Drawing on insights from Aims 1 and 2, I will examine how epigenetic mechanisms control neuronal behavior during circuit assembly. Career Development Plan and Goals: To achieve my goal of becoming an independent scientist, I will execute this research mentored by Dr. Lacin, at the University of Missouri – Kansas City (UMKC), who is a leading expert in the field of neuronal development in the VNC. Furthermore, I have assembled a dedicated mentoring team, including Dr. Spletter as co- mentor. Dr. Lacin's expertise in developmental neurobiology, Dr. Tillberg's expertise in expansion microscopy, Dr. Jefferis' expertise with generating and analyzing single-cell RNAseq data, and Dr. Azevedo's focus on mapping neural circuits will provide a robust foundation for my research. With support from these experts, I will develop a deep understanding of neural circuit formation, microscopy techniques, and gene-regulatory mechanisms governing neural connectivity. The environment at UMKC, enriched by these collaborations, will enable me to transition to an independent research program.


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 = $137,687 )
2026	2026	THE CURATORS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI	118 UNIVERSITY HALL	COLUMBIA	MO	65211	BOONE	USA	Extramural Research Programs in the Neurosciences and Neurological Disorders	000	1	3/9/2026	NEW	$137,687
														Subtotal = $137,687

Grand Total All Awards = $137,687

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Gene-regulatory mechanisms of neuronal circuit formation in Drosophila

Award Number: K99NS146609

ORGANIZATION: NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS AND STROKE

OPDIV: NIH

AWARD CLASS: DISCRETIONARY

AWARD ACTIVITY TYPE: TRAINING/TRAINEESHIP

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE START DATE: 03/09/2026

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE END DATE: 02/28/2028

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