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Slimming gene regulates body fat

Researchers at the University of Bonn have identified a previously unknown gene in fruit flies that controls fat metabolism. The gene, called 'schlank', is structurally similar to genes found in humans and may play a role in energy metabolism. Introducing mouse Lass genes into mutant flies showed promise for new obesity treatments.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateNov 2, 2009

Larvae shun the light

Research in Drosophila larvae reveals that 5-HT and corazonergic neurons regulate photobehavior, increasing aversion to light during foraging phase. The study provides new insights into the function of 5-HT neurons and mechanisms underlying regulation of larval response to light.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Neuroscience·DateJun 22, 2009

Summer heat too hot for you? What is comfortable?

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that fruit flies use TRPA1 to sense single degree changes in the comfortable range, adapting to different temperatures through a multistep process. This discovery raises the possibility that mammals may also be able to sense small changes in internal body temperature.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJul 29, 2008

Parasitoid turns its host into a bodyguard

A parasitoid wasp induces its moth caterpillar host to stop feeding, remain close to the pupae, and defend against predators, resulting in increased pupae survival. The caterpillar's behavioral changes appear to outweigh potential risks of increased transmission for the parasite.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 3, 2008

Bees disease -- 1 step closer to finding a cure

Researchers have discovered a new mechanism of infection for American Foulbrood, the deadliest bee disease, allowing for potential prevention and control measures to be developed. The study provides a better understanding of pathogen-host interactions, crucial for combating infectious diseases in honeybees.

SourceWiley·JournalEnvironmental Microbiology·DateMay 2, 2008

Changes in ocean conditions in Sargasso Sea potential cause for decline in eel fishery

A recent study by NOAA scientists suggests that changes in ocean-atmosphere conditions may be a primary factor in declining European eel reproduction and survival rates. The North Atlantic Oscillation is believed to be a key driver of these changes, which can impact the development of glass eels, the juvenile stage of the eel population.

SourceNOAA National Marine Fisheries Service·JournalJournal of Marine Research·DateMar 6, 2008

Insect gut detects unhealthy meal

Researchers discovered that insect larvae can detect and respond to non-pathogenic bacteria in their diet, triggering an immune response. This reaction affects pupation time and mass, highlighting the trade-offs of a balanced diet for insects.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Biology·DateDec 20, 2007

Bees are the new silkworms

Researchers discovered the essential design features of coiled coil silks in bees, ants, and wasps, which are produced by larvae using different methods. The unique protein structure produces a lightweight yet tough silk, likely contributing to the social insects' evolutionary success.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateNov 21, 2007

Motile Cilia go with the flow

Researchers at Salk Institute discovered a 2-step mechanism for cilia to agree on direction, enabling directional fluid flow. Cilia refinement phase ensures coordinated movement of up to 200 cilia per cell.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature·DateApr 22, 2007

Scientists find genes involved in the battle between Hessian flies and wheat

Researchers at Purdue University have discovered genes in wheat that neutralize toxic compounds produced by the Hessian fly larvae, making them vulnerable to attack. The study provides insight into the biochemical mechanisms involved in insect-plant interactions and may lead to novel strategies for enhancing wheat resistance.

SourcePurdue University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 7, 2007

Wheat can fatally starve insect predators

A newly identified wheat gene produces proteins that bind to the stomach lining of Hessian fly larvae, causing them to starve. The gene's role in creating resistance to Hessian flies was a surprise to researchers, who found that it triggers a localized defense response that reduces energy costs for the plant.

SourcePurdue University·JournalMolecular Plant Pathology·DateJan 10, 2007

There's no scent like home

New research from MBL reveals that some fish larvae can discriminate odors in ocean currents and use scent to return to their birthplace. This homing behavior could support population isolation and genetic divergence, leading to the formation of new species. The study suggests that smell plays a crucial role in guiding larvae back to t...

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 8, 2007

Predicting species abundance in the face of habitat loss

Researchers used carnivorous pitcher plant food webs to study habitat loss effects on species abundance. Trophic interactions, such as predator-prey relationships, dominated abundance predictions, unlike previous modeling frameworks that relied on habitat contraction or keystone species effects.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 25, 2006

Researchers identify neurons that assign value during learning

Researchers used a genetic tool to activate specific neurons in fruit flies, revealing that two subsets of neurons are responsible for assigning positive or negative values to stimuli. This discovery advances our understanding of how animals learn to associate cues with experiences and has implications for more complex mammalian brains.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 5, 2006

Plants tell caterpillars when it's safe to forage

Researchers found that caterpillars respond to variations in plant volatile production to reduce encounters with parasitic wasps. The study demonstrates that plant volatiles, rather than light, control the daily behavior of caterpillars.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMay 15, 2006

Wasps queue for top job

A recent study reveals that wasp helpers are more likely to take risks when they have a better chance of becoming the next queen or breeder. Brighter wasps face a fundamental trade-off between helping and ensuring their own survival, ultimately leading them to become lazier as their future reproductive success increases.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature·DateMay 10, 2006