Department of Entomology

Abstract: Abstract: Our goal is to systematically study G protein-coupled receptors and other plasma membrane receptors to identify both novel and critical functions that could be targeted for pest control. The post-genomic era provided us with enormous data sets to mine candidate genes, however, their function is predicted and requires experimental validation to advance insect physiology and toxicology. The reverse-genetics approach is used to learn about insect endocrinology in a number of pests of worldwide importance: the dengue vector, the mosquito (A. aegypti), ticks of medical and agricultural importance (I. scapularis and R. microplus) and an invasive urban and agricultural pest, the red imported fire ant (S. invicta). Applied toxicology is demonstrated in studies with the bollworm or corn earworm, Helicoverpa zea. The seminar will highlight achievements in comparative endocrinology focusing on insect water balance, reproduction and most recently, neurobiology. The seminar will demonstrate the challenges of working with each of these different systems from blood feeders to social insects. Studies utilize recombinant approaches in mammalian cells for receptor pharmacology and structure-activity relationships, cellular biology, biochemical and immunological methods, RNAi, etc
Host: Lyric Bartholomay
Paul A Dahm Memorial Lecture in Entomology