Andrew Nuss: Insect physiology lab
Title
Insect physiology lab
Mentor
Department
Agriculture, Veterinary and Rangeland Sciences
Biosketch
I am an associate professor of entomology and I have studied many different insects and other arthropods throughout my career. My current research interests are focused on the physiology of neurohormonal signaling in insects of agricultural, medical and veterinary importance. I am particularly interested in peptide hormones and their role in insect behavior, digestion, and nutrient storage. I primarily focus on physiological functions of peptide hormones, yet an applied aspect of this work includes insecticide discovery by targeting peptide receptors. Among many side projects, I am also interested in mosquito olfaction and how we might interfere with host seeking to disrupt pathogen transmission.
Project overview
This project focuses on Lygus hesperus, the western tarnished plant bug, to explore the role of insulin-like-peptide (ILP) signaling in carbohydrate storage in the fat body, determine the roles of ILP signaling in reproduction, and reveal the dynamics of ILPs in regulating diapause. Students who join this project will get hands-on experience with molecular biology techniques as well as an introduction to the internal workings of insects.
Pack Research Experience Program information and application