Neuronal functions of DEG/ENaC channels
Degenerin/epithelial (DEG/ENaC) sodium channels form non-voltage-gated, amiloride-sensitive cation channels. The active Deg/ENaC channel is comprised of three to nine independent subunits. Each subunit has two transmembrane domains, two short intracellular domains and a large extracellular loop, which is a characteristic of the family. The Deg/ENaC family seems to be animal specific and members have been identified in diverse species. Different subunits are enriched in peripheral and central neurons, and several members of the family contribute to mechanosensation, pH sensing, or are activated by peptides, but for most, the physiological function is still unknown. The Drosophila genome encodes for 31 members of the family, which are named pickpocket genes 1-31 (ppk1-ppk31). We use the fly as a model to understand the central and peripheral neuronal roles of these Deg/ENaC subunits with genetic, behavioral, and physiological tools. We are currently investigating the role of multiple family members in processes such as chemosensation, mechanosensation and proprioception, as well as the possible role of some subunits in synaptic plasticity.
Evolution and function of pheromonal communication systems
Animals use various sensory modalities to identify appropriate mates. We use the power of Drosophila genetics to understand the genetic and neuronal basis for species recognition and mating decisions, especially in the context of pheromonal signaling. We ask how these systems function, and how they may have evolved by taking advantage of the wealth of state-of-the-art genetic and genomic tools available for a group of closely related Drosophila species.
Molecular mechanisms for the neuronal stress response
In order to maintain functional ionic gradients across their membranes during physical and biological stresses, neurons need to adjust their electrical properties. Understanding how such homeostatic adjustments are made is important, since disruptions in neuronal homeostasis have been implicated in various behavioral and neuronal pathologies, such as seizures and cognitive deficits, as well as in certain psychiatric conditions. Established models propose that the regulation of neuronal homeostasis requires changes in the relative abundances of potassium and sodium channels at the membrane. We use genetics, behavioral, and neuronal tools to better understand how these channels are regulated in response to environmental stresses such as heat.
Molecular evolution of eusociality
We use genetic and genomic approaches to study how eusocial (“true social”) traits evolved in social bees, ants, and wasps. We are specifically focused on the possible function of regulatory non-coding RNAs, such as miRNAs, in the regulation of social behavioral traits in honey bees.