One of the areas we are currently investigating is the role of the taste system in mediating contact pheromone communication. ppk23 is one of 31 Degenerin/Epithelial sodium channels in the Drosophila genome. Images abive depict the axonal projection patterns of ppk23-expressing sensory neurons. Note the lack of positive cell bodies in the CNS and the striking sexual dimorphism of the axons that originate from the forelegs (arrows). ppk23 and the cells expressing it play a major role in mediating the behavioral response of males to aphrodisiac pheromones.

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Molecular and Evolutionary Neuroethology

We study the genetic, molecular, and cellular mechanisms underlying behavioral plasticity at different time scales by using the powerful genetic model, Drosophila melanogaster and the emerging model for social behaviors, the European honey bee Apis mellifera. We currently focus our attention on the activity of G-protein coupled receptors, ion channels, and ion transporters in the peripheral and central nervous systems, as well as non-neuronal sensory organs. We ask where, when, and how the function of specific genes is affecting behavioral plasticity and the behavioral response to environmental and social stimuli.