Bringing the Honeybee Blood-Brain Barrier into Focus

A Social Insect Research Group Seminar: "Bringing the Honeybee Blood-Brain Barrier into Focus"

Presented by Tyler Quigley.

A honeybee’s behavior is influenced by her physiological state as well as by toxins and parasites she may come into contact with throughout her life. Nevertheless, we do not understand the mechanisms by which endocrine signals and foreign chemicals enter the honeybee brain. Elucidating this pathway requires an exploration of the honeybee blood-brain barrier, the thin layer of glial cells that physically separates brain circuits from the surrounding hemolymph. Quigley will share his exploration of honeybee blood-brain barrier using electron microscopy. He'll then report his findings on how a pesticide, a parasite and natural aging influence barrier integrity. Last, he will discuss how honeybees can help us understand better the role the blood-brain barrier may play in modulating signals between body and brain.

Snacks and coffee are provided. Please bring your own mug.

Douglas Lawton
School of Life Sciences
ddlawton@asu.edu
https://sols.asu.edu/research/social-insect-research-group
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Interdisciplinary Science and Technology Bldg. I 401