Neuropeptides, synaptic modulation and behavior in arthropods

动物的行为是由中枢神经系统(CNS)产生的，并受到作用于中枢神经系统、神经肌肉靶点和内脏器官的激素的强烈影响。我研究的最终目标是了解荷尔蒙调节行为的机制。我的研究项目对这个问题采取了一种综合的方法，在整个动物的水平上研究行为，识别行为背后的激素和神经递质，并揭示激素和递质在细胞和亚细胞水平上的作用机制。我使用无脊椎动物作为研究的模型系统。我的大部分工作都集中在“FMRFamide样肽”上，这种多肽似乎存在于所有动物中。这些化学物质调节心脏、血管组织、神经细胞、肌肉细胞和内脏器官。

Behavior in animals is produced by the central nervous system (CNS) and is strongly influenced by hormones that can act within the CNS, on neuromuscular targets and on visceral organs. The ultimate goal of my research is to understand the mechanisms through which hormones modulate behavior. My research program takes an integrated approach to this problem by studying behavior at the level of whole animals, identifying hormones and neurotransmitters that underlie behavior, and uncovering the mechanisms of action of hormones and transmitters at the cellular and sub-cellular levels. I use invertebrates as model systems for study. Much of my work has focused on "FMRFamide-like peptides", which appear to be present in all animals. These chemicals regulate the heart, vascular tissues, nerve cells, muscle cells and visceral organs.