The effects of magnetic fields and other environmental stressors on the physiological responses and behavior of different species

The subproject „NEUROPHYSIOLOGICAL AND BEHAVIORAL RESPONSES OF DIFFERENT SPECIES TO EXTERNAL MAGNETIC FIELDS“ deals with the effects of constant and alternating magnetic fields in insects, snail and mammals, with extra focus on the neuro-endocrine system. Electrophysiological studies in vitro and in vivo, biochemical analyses (oxidative stress state, nucleotide content, gaseous turnover, enzyme and receptor activities), histological analyses, and monitoring of development and behavior in selected model systems are planned. Obtained results will both contribute to the understanding of basic mechanisms of magnetoreception in evolutionary distant species and clarify the specific biological responses evoked by external magnetic fields. The subproject „RESPONSES OF PHYTOPHAGOUS PEST INSECTS TO ENVIRONMENTAL STRESSORS“ is aimed at understanding plasticity in response to environmental stressors: magnetic fields, high temperatures, and chemicals (cadmium, plant allelochemicals and nutritional deficiency) and mechanisms of adaptation in insects (L. dispar, T. molitor, and others). Along with life history traits (survival, development duration, growth), the physiological parameters will be monitored: neuroendocrine responses, digestive reorganization and stress proteins-Hsp, antioxidative and detoxification enzymes. The results will clarify mechanisms of pest insect’s adaptations to stressors and physiological responses that can be used as biomarkers sensitive to environmental changes.