# Analysis of embryonic brain wiring in C. elegans

> **NIH NIH R56** · MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL · 2021 · $588,000

## Abstract

Analysis of embryonic brain wiring in C. elegans
The goal of this project is to investigate how neural circuits are assembled in C. elegans
embryos. We develop assays for an embryonic behavior (a sleep-like quiescent state)
and for the neurons controlling this behavior. This embryonic sleep state is analogous to
the quiescence that occurs during larval molts. We will determine if quiescence is
triggered by cuticle synthesis. We will image synapse formation in embryos and will
determine if sleep circuit development is controlled by heterochronic genes (which
control larval skin development). We will also ask if circuit development is altered by
mutations that prevent sleep or by those linked to Autism spectrum disorders (ASD).
These Aims address basic questions about the genetic and physiological mechanisms
controlling early brain development.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10355924
- **Project number:** 1R56NS121182-01
- **Recipient organization:** MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL
- **Principal Investigator:** JOSHUA M KAPLAN
- **Activity code:** R56 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2021
- **Award amount:** $588,000
- **Award type:** 1
- **Project period:** 2021-06-01 → 2022-05-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10355924

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10355924, Analysis of embryonic brain wiring in C. elegans (1R56NS121182-01). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-24 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10355924. Licensed CC0.

---

*[NIH grants dataset](/datasets/nih-grants) · CC0 1.0*