Dr. Ringo has an excellent model system to determine how genetic changes affect behavior by the endocrine system. The apterous locus in Drosophila is crucial for the survival of embryos and young, and for the normal development of wings and specific endocrine glands that are involved in the production and secretion of juvenile hormone. Juvenile hormone is a major growth regulator in insects as well as being required for normal oogenesis and the development of reproductive behavior. Using a multidisciplinary approach, Dr. Ringo will genetically dissect the endocrine basis of reproduction in Drosophila. Using specific mutations of the apterous gene, he can define precisely the extent and timing of the behavioral defects, and determine the exact relationship between these defects and the level of juvenile hormone. This research not only open doors at elucidating the molecular basis of hormonally controlled behavior patterns, but it could lead to noninvasive means of insect pest control. This is very important especially given the recent controversy surrounding chemical spraying for control of insects, specifically flys, in populated environments.
