This National Science Foundation project grant of $746,518 awarded under the Biological Sciences program (CFDA 47.074) supports research into bidirectional transport of lysosome-related organelles during synapse maintenance and plasticity. The University of Florida will investigate how formation and modification of neuronal connections regulates intracellular transport within neurons and between neurons to mediate communication. Specifically, the researchers will study regulation and dynamics of bidirectional transport of lysosome-related organelles in presynaptic sensory neurons of Aplysia and its relation to synaptic plasticity using advanced imaging techniques. Michigan State University will provide oversight and analysis of experimental data related to cellular transport, including processing, statistical analysis, interpretation, and dissemination of results through publications and presentations. The award period is from April 1, 2022 to February 28, 2024.