Jennifer Scott

• BSc (Hons) Cellular and Molecular Biology
• Gustatory receptors as nutrient sensors: expression in the brains of bumblebees

Nutrient balancing requires identifying the right food by taste. Once food is eaten, the body must maintain the right levels of nutrients. The aim of the project is to identify which gustatory receptors (Grs) found in the mouthparts are also expressed in the brains and the guts of bumblebees. This will allow us to begin to test whether these Grs act as internal nutrient sensors. This project will complement current research in Dr Geraldine Wright’s laboratory identifying the expression of the 10 known Grs in the honeybee in gustatory organs. 

Funding Source: Newcastle University