This National Science Foundation Project Grant award of $302,900 will fund research into higher-order neural processing in the peripheral nervous system of the nudibranch mollusk Berghia stephaniae from April 1, 2023 through March 31, 2026. The award was made under the Biological Sciences program (CFDA 47.074), which aims to promote biological sciences research and enhance understanding of major problems. Specifically, the grant will support construction of a connectome of the rhinophore ganglion through electron microscopic imaging and machine learning algorithms to determine neural circuit motifs. It will also fund development of a neuronal atlas through single cell RNA sequencing, in situ hybridization, immunohistochemistry, and axon tracing to map gene expression in rhinophore complex neurons and their inputs. Additionally, the award will enable exploration of the rhinophore complex's role in navigational behavior through lesion and behavioral assays. Laboratory courses developed using this research will allow undergraduates to participate in neuronal labeling, imaging, and behavioral experiments.
Mod # | Description | Reason For Modification | Federal Obligation (Click to sort descending) | Date (Click to sort ascending) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Not listed | $302.9k | 3/29/23 |