The context of this project lies in the fundamental understanding of how living organisms perceive and adapt to gravitational forces, a question that has gained urgency with advancements in space exploration and our ability to expose biological systems to varying gravity levels. Gravity influences numerous biological functions, including circulatory systems, development, and behavior, yet the molecular, neural, and physiological bases of this sensory modality remain largely unknown. This project focuses on gravity perception in insects, specifically Drosophila melanogaster, using its well-established genetic toolkit to uncover the mechanisms behind gravity sensing and adaptation. Additionally, the project expands to crop pests like Drosophila suzukii and Ostrinia nubilalis, aiming to address ecological and agronomic impacts related to gravity adaptation.
The overall objective is to identify sensory organs, neurons, and molecular pathways involved in gravity perception and understand how these processes influence key developmental stages, such as metamorphosis and post-eclosion, where alterations in gravity sensation may impair circulatory functions. The project's results could lead to novel insights into fundamental biological processes and offer applied benefits in pest control, exploiting gravity adaptation mechanisms to reduce crop damage.
In a broader strategic context, the project's findings will be pivotal in biocontrol strategies for agriculture, reducing reliance on chemical pesticides by targeting gravity adaptation as a vulnerability in pest species. By aligning with global agricultural sustainability goals and European Union strategies for integrated pest management, this project promises to generate significant ecological and economic impact. The research has the potential to inform future space biology studies, offering insights into how organisms, including humans, adapt to space environments, which is crucial for long-term space exploration missions.
