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Epigenetic mechanisms mediating conflicts within social insect colonies

Author:
Galbraith, David A.
Published:
[University Park, Pennsylvania] : Pennsylvania State University, 2015.
Physical Description:
1 electronic document
Additional Creators:
Grozinger, Christina
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Open Access.
Summary:
Epigenetic mechanisms are widespread across the tree of life, playing critical roles in all organisms. Insects provide a valuable resource to examine the function of epigenetic mechanisms in more detail because of their extreme diversity in behavior, morphology, and biochemistry. Social insects in particular represent an excellent model to examine the role of epigenetic mechanisms because of their complex social behaviors, multiple interactions with both kin and unrelated individuals, unique reproductive strategies, and morphologically distinct, but genetically identical, castes. There are also various levels of conflict within social insect colonies, and these conflicts may be mediated by epigenetic mechanisms, including between members of the colony, conflict between parental alleles over worker behavior, and the struggle between host an pathogen. The underlying mechansims connecting epigenetic mechanisms to the conflict resolution that helps to sustain social homeostasis are still unclear, however, this research presented in this dissertation establishes a solid foundation for futures studies to bridge the gap between epigenetics and their impacts on behavior, development, and immunity within social insect colonies.
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Dissertation Note:
Ph.D. Pennsylvania State University 2015.
Reproduction Note:
Microfilm (positive). 1 reel ; 35 mm. (University Microfilms 10-666494)
Technical Details:
The full text of the dissertation is available as an Adobe Acrobat .pdf file ; Adobe Acrobat Reader required to view the file.
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