Project Grant R35GM165823

The National Institute of General Medical Sciences awarded the University of New Orleans $372,500 on September 1, 2026, under the Biomedical Research and Research Training program (CFDA 93.859, Assistance Type: Project Grant) to investigate the role of lipid metabolism in germline-soma interactions and stress responses using Caenorhabditis elegans as a model organism.

The research examines how increased germline activity—specifically in mated hermaphrodite worms compared to self-fertilized worms—alters lipid metabolism in somatic tissue and influences somatic homeostasis and stress responsiveness. Prior work by the principal investigator found that mated worms experience reduced fat storage, increased susceptibility to osmotic, oxidative, and temperature stresses, and shorter lifespans. The project addresses three major research questions: how an active germline induces somatic loss of neutral lipids and phospholipids; the extent and mechanisms by which germline-induced lipid depletion influences somatic function; and what role lipid metabolism plays in coordinating germline-soma interactions under stress conditions.

The period of performance runs from September 1, 2026, through May 31, 2031, with work performed in New Orleans, Louisiana. The award supports basic research under NIGMS's mission to increase understanding of biological processes and lay the foundation for advances in disease diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.