Decoding the Molecular Logic of Visual Map Formation in Drosophila
About This Grant
Project Summary: Precise mapping of sensory neural circuits is fundamental to perception and behavior. In the visual system, retinotopy—an orderly mapping of retinal inputs onto target brain regions—preserves spatial relationships and enables computation of motion, depth, and object localization. While the overall topology of visual maps is well understood, the molecular and developmental mechanisms by which such precise spatial wiring is established and propagated across higher-order brain regions remain unclear. This project aims to uncover how spatial codes in developing photoreceptors guide topographic connectivity in downstream neural circuits and ultimately shape visually guided behavior. Using the Drosophila visual system as a model, this research relies on its well-characterized anatomy, powerful genetic toolkit, and high-resolution imaging potential to address these questions in vivo. Aim 1 examines how the temporal order of photoreceptor neurogenesis contributes to precise spatial targeting in early visual circuits. Aim 2 investigates how dorsal-ventral positional cues and planar cell polarity (PCP) signaling define region-specific connectivity. Aim 3 proposes to explore how retinotopic organization is interpreted by higher-order visual neurons, and how disruptions in this logic alter visually guided behavior. This K99/R00 proposal integrates training in advanced single-cell transcriptomics, microscopy, circuit mapping tools (e.g., trans-Tango, GRASP), and behavioral analysis, along with structured career development in scientific writing, mentorship, and leadership. The research will provide mechanistic insights into how spatial information is encoded and transmitted during circuit assembly, a fundamental problem in neurodevelopment with relevance to disorders of neural connectivity such as amblyopia, autism, and schizophrenia.
Grant Summary
Decoding the Molecular Logic of Visual Map Formation in Drosophila is a NEI - National Eye Institute grant providing up to $140K for university, nonprofit, healthcare org. Applications are due 2028-06-30 (open). Check eligibility and apply with FindGrants.
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Up to $140K
2028-06-30
- 1Confirm your organization is eligible for Decoding the Molecular Logic of Visual Map Formation in Drosophila from NEI - National Eye Institute, checking organization type, location, and any population or project requirements.
- 2Gather the required documents and information, including your organization details, project plan, and budget figures.
- 3Draft your application narrative and budget addressing the funder's priorities and review criteria. FindGrants can draft each section for you to review and edit.
- 4Review every section against the requirements checklist, then export a submission-ready application pack and submit it to NEI - National Eye Institute before the deadline.
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Decoding the Molecular Logic of Visual Map Formation in Drosophila: Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the Decoding the Molecular Logic of Visual Map Formation in Drosophila?
Decoding the Molecular Logic of Visual Map Formation in Drosophila is offered by NEI - National Eye Institute and is generally open to university, nonprofit, healthcare org. It is open to organizations nationwide unless the funder specifies otherwise. Review the specific eligibility terms before applying, since funders set their own requirements around organization type, location, and the population or project being served.
How much funding does the Decoding the Molecular Logic of Visual Map Formation in Drosophila provide?
Decoding the Molecular Logic of Visual Map Formation in Drosophila provides up to $140K per award from NEI - National Eye Institute. Actual award sizes depend on the scope of your project, available program funds, and the number of applicants, so build a budget that reflects realistic, allowable costs rather than the maximum figure.
When is the Decoding the Molecular Logic of Visual Map Formation in Drosophila deadline?
Applications for Decoding the Molecular Logic of Visual Map Formation in Drosophila are due 2028-06-30 (open). Because deadlines can change, verify the date with the funder, NEI - National Eye Institute, and give yourself enough time to prepare a complete, competitive application before the close date.
How do you apply for the Decoding the Molecular Logic of Visual Map Formation in Drosophila?
To apply for Decoding the Molecular Logic of Visual Map Formation in Drosophila, confirm your eligibility, gather the required documents, and prepare a narrative and budget that address the funder's priorities. FindGrants guides you step by step and can draft each section, then exports a submission-ready application pack for this grant from NEI - National Eye Institute.