The Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Insects (LABIMI) of the Oswaldo Cruz Institute (IOC/Fiocruz) conducts research on insect vectors of pathogens that cause tropical diseases, such as dengue, Zika, chikungunya and filariasis.
The group uses Drosophila melanogaster and the genes linked to behavior already described in this insect model as a starting point for these studies.
Researchers investigate the role of genes that control behavior in the speciation process, with an emphasis on reproductive isolation mechanisms.
The analysis of genes that control circadian rhythms, previously characterized in Drosophila, and the functions of these genes in controlling activity and feeding rhythms in sandflies and mosquitoes and in host-pathogen interactions are also performed.
In addition, LABIMI works in the area of dissemination of scientific knowledge with a focus on the mechanical control of the dissemination of Aedes aegypti through practical activities in formal and non-formal learning environments and through the production of educational materials.
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