The general theme of this research is to understand how sensory information is encoded and processed in the central nervous system in order to generate coordinated motor outputs. Dr. Christopher Comer will continue to study central integration in a model system where the traffic of neural signals in the CNS can be easily monitored, assigned to identified interneurons, and related to the performance of a discrete and easily recorded behavioral act. Cockroaches evade a predator's strike by turning away and then running. This orientating response may be used as a model system to determine how signals are processed in the CNS to control the occurrence and form of directional movement. Specific, identifiable, giant interneurons in cockroaches which are wind-sensitive cells, will be thoroughly examined electrophysiologically and anatomically for their role in escape behavior. These studies will give us a more complete understanding of how the nervous system encodes and communicates for escape and startle responses.
