15th Distinguished Kavli Lecture - Barry J. Dickson, 20 June 2013

Title:“Sex circuits: the neurobiology of Drosophila mating behaviour”.

Abstract: How are innate behavioral repertoires pre-programmed into the nervous system? And how are these innate responses adjusted according to the individual’s prior experience and current state? The mating behaviors of Drosophila melanogaster males offer a tractable genetic model system to address these questions. I will review current efforts to define the anatomy and function of neural circuity that generates male courtship behavior and female receptivity. Sexual dimorphisms sculpted into these circuits by the fruitless gene result in similar but distinct circuits in males and females, so that differential processing of pheromone signals in higher brain centers leads to dstinct behavioral responses in each sex. Specific elements of these circuits mediate learning in the adult male, so that he learns through experience to direct his courtship activity at the most appropriate target – the receptive virgin female.

Date: Thursday 20 June 2013

Time: 14:00

Location: MTFS, CNC/Kavli Institute, seminar room, 5th floor