The text discusses the discovery and study of a fungal parasite called Entomophthora, which infects flies and manipulates their behavior. The parasite feeds on the flies from the inside and causes them to perform specific behaviors at a fixed time of day before dying. One of these behaviors, known as summiting, involves the infected flies climbing to an elevated location and extending their proboscises to stick to a surface before dying. The fungus then releases spores to find a new victim. The discovery of this parasitic relationship between Entomophthora and fruit flies has allowed for further research into the mechanisms behind the manipulation of behavior. The text also mentions the significance of studying fruit flies in laboratory settings and the ongoing efforts to understand how the fungus affects the fly’s nervous system and triggers summiting behavior. The research aims to uncover the circuits and neurons involved in this process. The text concludes with the researcher’s plans to continue studying the fungus and its effects, highlighting the potential for understanding how parasites manipulate their hosts.
| Signal | Change | 10y horizon | Driving force |
|---|---|---|---|
| Discovery of Entomophthora muscae | Expansion of knowledge | Increased understanding of fungal behavior | Curiosity and scientific exploration |
| Manipulation of fly behavior by the fungus | Behavioral manipulation | Further understanding of neural mechanisms | Scientific curiosity and desire for understanding |
| Focus on summiting behavior | In-depth study | Identification of neural circuit involved | Desire to understand how the fungus manipulates fly behavior |
| Identification of specific neurons involved | Discovery of neural circuit | Increased knowledge of fly neurobiology | Desire to understand the mechanisms behind the fungus’s actions |
| Hemolymph differences between infected and uninfected flies | Biological differences | Further understanding of fungal-fly interaction | Desire to understand how the fungus affects the fly’s biology |
| Interest in zombies in popular culture | Cultural influence | Increased attention to fungus and zombie phenomena | Cultural fascination with zombies and related topics |
| Development of transgenics for the fungus | Technological advancement | Improved ability to manipulate and study fungus | Advancement of scientific techniques and tools |
| Understanding the fungus as a survival mechanism | Shift in perspective | Changing perception of the fungus’s role | Appreciation for the adaptability and survival strategies of microbes |