C24: Role of Nitric Oxide and Cricket’s Agonistic Behavior

Agonistic behavior is a critical aspect of animal behavior that is essential for survival and reproduction. Nitric oxide (NO) is a key neurotransmitter that has been shown to regulate a wide range of behaviors in both insects and mammals. In insects, NO has been demonstrated to modulate aggression, mating, feeding, and many other behaviors. In mammals, NO has been linked to learning and memory, pain perception, and social behavior. Changes in behavior have been observed in both mammals and insects during an immune reaction, including increased anxiety, decreased social interaction, and altered sleep patterns. Immune challenges have also been found to impact the expression of the nos gene in immune tissues, which in turn may alter NO levels in the brain and affect behavior. Our study aimed to investigate the role of NO in the regulation of agonistic behavior in crickets. We used RNA interference (RNAi) to reduce the expression of nos in crickets and examined its effect on agonistic behavior. We plan to investigate the link between immune challenges and changes in behavior, focusing on the impact of immune activation on NO levels and behavior. Our preliminary data suggest that crickets with inflammation tend to lose fights more often, which may be due to changes in NO signaling. By examining the effects of immune challenges on nos expression and NO levels, we hope to shed light on the relationship between NO and immune function in crickets. Furthermore, by comparing the behavior of crickets with reduced nos expression to that of control crickets, we aim to gain a deeper understanding of how NO regulates behavior and how it may serve as a link between the immune system and behavior. Overall, this study has important implications for our understanding of the role of NO in behavior and immunity. By elucidating the mechanisms by which NO regulates behavior, we may be able to gain new insights into the relationship between immunity and behavior. This could lead to the development of new therapies for immune-related disorders. Finally, this project has important implications for my intended career in the medical field, as it allows me to develop my skills in behavioral neuroscience and gain valuable experience in molecular biology techniques.

Author(s): Madison Slosier, Biology and Premedical Studies Major

Hope Keane, Biology and Neuroscience Major

Advisor(s): Kathleen Killian, Department of Biology

Siva Lakshamana Vijayarajan, Department of Biology