Investigating insect neuronal plasticity under genetic and chemical stress

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This project aims to study receptors that translate chemical signals into electrical signals in animal brains. These receptors are targeted by insecticides used to control the major pests that afflict agriculture and domestic pets. The project aims to establish the functions of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in several behaviours and in insecticide responsiveness in the model insect, Drosophila melanogaster, using mutations that knock out the function of receptor subunits. Prior research has pointed to plasticity in the expression and transport of these receptors in response to genetic and environmental change. This project aims to identify the underlying mechanisms that provide the insect with resilience, to provide better options for pest control.