Iris Hardege
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About
Research Area
Our research focuses on the molecular complexity of neurotransmission in invertebrates, particularly nematodes, and its evolutionary and ecological significance. We study ligand-gated ion channels (LGICs) and G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) that mediate excitatory and inhibitory signalling, using a multidisciplinary approach combining genetics, electrophysiology, high-resolution imaging, and behavioural analysis, predominantly using C. elegans as a model. Our overarching goal is to understand how receptor diversity influences neural circuit function, behavioural plasticity, and adaptation to environmental cues.
We have recently discovered a range of novel nematode specific LGICs that appear to function within sensory neurons and are interested in understanding how animals use these receptors to identify and distinguish food sources in a complex environment. Parasitic nematodes also represent a significant problem in agriculture, and we are interested in developing these nematode specific receptors as targets for new anti-helminthics. Finally we’re also interested in understanding to what extent receptor diversity exists across invertebrates through the use of phylogenetics and evolutionary studies.
Project Interests
I am interested in co-developing projects that explore:
(1) How novel amine-gated ion channels function in sensory neurons and mediate environmental adaptation.
(2) The pharmacology and evolution of nematode-specific ligand-gated channels with potential as novel anti-helminthic targets.
(3) Comparative analyses of neurotransmitter systems across species to uncover how molecular complexity in neural signalling has evolved.
Projects may involve CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, functional characterisation using electrophysiology, high-resolution imaging, or bioinformatics-driven receptor discovery in parasitic and free-living species.