Objectif Taste and olfaction share the same function: detect chemicals in the external world or in food. Despite this common functionality, both systems are designed completely differently both at the level of the sensory receptors and in the way information is mapped into the brain. As such, they have been studied separately, under the common assumption that both systems are tuned to detect divergent and non-overlapping ensemble of molecules. We will challenge this view by studying taste in Drosophila, in which taste neurons are accessible to physiological recording and which exhibit well-defined and stereotyped feeding and sexual behaviors. We will first study if volatiles associated with food or general irritants can be detected by taste neurons. Such detection can occur because some olfactory molecules are occasionally reported to be detected by the taste system of some insects. We will then evaluate if these odorants can modulate the detection of tastants related to food or sex or social signaling via pheromones. In order to achieve these goals, we will develop new stimulus delivery protocols (in collaboration with a microfluids laboratory) and evaluate different electrophysiological recording configurations. Lastly, by using existing genetic constructions, we will evaluate different hypotheses concerning the transduction pathways involved. With this innovative research program, we hope to question the unspoken separation that exists between taste and olfaction, and open new perspectives on the evolution of these sensory systems. Our work promises to stimulate further research in sensory biology and insect cognition, revisiting the concept of information coding from mixtures at the peripheral level, and can also have applications in pest management. Our multidisciplinary and collaborative approach will enhance research excellence in Europe. Champ scientifique agricultural sciencesagriculture, forestry, and fisheriesagricultureagronomyplant protectionnatural sciencesbiological scienceszoologyentomology Programme(s) FP7-PEOPLE - Specific programme "People" implementing the Seventh Framework Programme of the European Community for research, technological development and demonstration activities (2007 to 2013) Thème(s) FP7-PEOPLE-2012-IIF - Marie Curie Action: "International Incoming Fellowships" Appel à propositions FP7-PEOPLE-2012-IIF Voir d’autres projets de cet appel Régime de financement MC-IIF - International Incoming Fellowships (IIF) Coordinateur CENTRE NATIONAL DE LA RECHERCHE SCIENTIFIQUE CNRS Contribution de l’UE € 202 405,80 Adresse RUE MICHEL ANGE 3 75794 Paris France Voir sur la carte Région Ile-de-France Ile-de-France Paris Type d’activité Research Organisations Contact administratif Véronique Debisschop (Mrs.) Liens Contacter l’organisation Opens in new window Site web Opens in new window Coût total Aucune donnée