Nutritional and thermal interplay in cockroach social evolution
The shift from solitary to social living in animals is considered one of the most important evolutionary milestones. Among the environmental pressures favoring the emergence of sociality, both nutrition and ambient temperature have been proposed as key drivers. However, evidence supporting these factors as proximate mechanisms remains limited. This project aims to identify the nutritional and thermal mechanisms underlying critical behavioral and physiological transitions associated with sociality.
Funding: Israel Science Foundation
Tracking the fate of plant-derived GABA in a pollinator: metabolism, allocation, and physiological role
​
Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a major inhibitory neurotransmitter in animals and is also found in floral nectar. Despite growing interest in its potential effects on insect pollinators, it remains unclear how plant-derived GABA is utilized by insects. This project addresses that gap by tracing labeled GABA from nectar through bumblebee respiration and tissues, revealing its metabolic fate and possible physiological and signaling roles.
In collaboration with Prof. Aaron Fait
Funding: Koshland Fund
Mitrani Department of Desert Ecology, The Jacob Blaustein Institutes for Desert Research, Sde-Boqer Campus, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Midreshet Ben-Gurion 8499000, Israel