Objective
Innate behaviours are well studied in many animals and yet little is known regarding how these behaviours are encoded via neural circuitry and how genes regulate their development. A number of “master switch” genes have been defined that specify (i.e. are necessary and sufficient for) developmental processes, e.g. the eyeless gene, which regulates the differentiation of multiple cell types to direct eye formation, even when expressed ectopically (1). Less well defined however is if, and how, master regulator genes are able to direct innate behaviour. Fruitless (fru) has been suggested to be one such “master switch” gene as it has been shown to specify male courtship behaviour in Drosophila (2). It is thought that fru acts by specifying sex-specific neural circuits within the CNS, which allow a particular, stereotyped behavioural response (3), however it is unclear at a molecular level, how this occurs. This project will explore, using fru as a model, how a single gene can direct the specification of neural circuitry underlying a given behaviour (Drosophila courtship). Understanding the molecular cascades directed by fru will not only allow an understanding of how genes control courtship behaviour, but more broadly suggest mechanisms by which the construction and coordination of neural circuits can be specified by genetic switches.
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Topic(s)
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
FP7-PEOPLE-2009-IEF
See other projects for this call
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Coordinator
1030 Wien
Austria
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.