Research
Animals display a remarkable diversity of behaviours which are evident even between closely related species. However, there is currently only a limited understanding for the mechanisms facilitating the emergence of novel behavioural traits. In particular, the absence of comparative organisms as well as their phylogenetic context has prevented a full understanding of the genetic, molecular and neuronal contribution to these evolutionary events.
In the Lightfoot lab, we aim to overcome these difficulties by exploring the divergent behaviours observed between the free-living round worms, C. elegans and P. pacificus. These two nematodes last shared a common ancestor >120 million years ago and accordingly, there are an array of behavioural differences between these species. We are currently focusing on their feeding behaviours as while C. elegans is a microbial feeder, P. pacificus is omnivorous and uses teeth-like structures to predate on other nematodes. Alongside this, they have also evolved a robust kin-recognition system to prevent them from killing their own offspring and close relatives. Therefore, as many genetic tools are available in both organisms, we are determining the molecular and cellular innovations which contribute to their behavioural adaptations and additionally are investigating how these changes are incorporated into their nervous system. Our current projects focus on three main areas:
(1) The evolution of predation behaviours
Pristionchus are omnivorous nematodes and feed on both microbes and also other nematode larvae. In order to do this, they utilise sophisticated sensory mechanisms to seek out and find food. This food is then taken into the organism through the actions of the pharynx which pumps rhythmically to either draw microbes into its mouth or in the case of predation must utilise the teeth to attack and kill their prey before feeding. Accordingly, P. pacificus demonstrates a greatly increased feeding complexity compared to the strict microbial feeder C. elegans. This includes more sophisticated pharyngeal rhythms and expanded neurotransmitter functions. To understand the evolutionary events behind these behavioural adaptations, we are currently investigating these processes at the genetic, molecular mechanistic and neuronal level to identify the prey detection and predatory mechanisms in P. pacificus.
(2) The evolution of kin-recognition
Pristionchus nematodes have evolved sophisticated mechanisms to avoid killing their own progeny. To understand how this is possible, we have previously isolated the first component involved in the kin-recognition signalling system which functions through the sensing of a small peptide called self-1. This small peptide is essential to maintain the kin signal however it is not the only component involved. Therefore we are currently attempting to identify other elements involved in this process to begin to understand how Pristionchus larvae ensure they are not cannibalised by their parents. Additionally, we currently understand little of how these signals are received and processed. As the kin-recognition behaviour requires direct contact between the nose of the predator and the nematode larvae, the head sensory circuit of these nematodes are prime candidates for mediating these interactions. Therefore, we are currently investigating the receptors and circuits involved to elucidated the mechanism behind prey sensing and understand how this system may have evolved.
(3) Tools and techniques
We are continuously trying to improve the molecular methods available in P. pacificus as well as develop new techniques for the community. We are particularly interested in developing new transgenic methods including for the genomic integration of transgenes and developing methods for tracking the distinct P. pacificus behaviour's.
