Role of photoreceptors in synchronising Drosophila's clock to natural conditions (A02)

• Subject Area: Molecular Biology and Physiology of Neurons and Glial Cells
• Term: from 2013 to 2017
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 208233609

The aim of this project is to clarify the roles of photoreceptors in timing daily activity to different light conditions, in particular those occurring under natural conditions. In this funding period we aim to extend our studies from white light to coloured light and to other species (such as aphids and Drosophila species living at different latitudes and altitudes). To perform our task, we developed a computerized lighting system that is able to simulate spectral changes during the course of a day. Our future focus will be on the role of CRY and Rhodopsins with special emphasis on Rh7 in circadian photoreception.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1047: Insect Timing: Mechanisms, Plasticity and Interactions
• Applicant Institution: Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg
• Project Heads: Professorin Dr. Charlotte Förster; Dr. Pingkalai Senthilan