de Bekker Lab
Parasitic Behavioural Manipulation
Photo: Danny Gooding
Our mission
Welcome to the Parasitic Behavioural Manipulation Lab at Utrecht University!
We are fascinated by parasites that manipulate animal behaviour such that the host becomes a vehicle for the parasite to spread. Our work centers around the discovery of genes and molecules involved in this widespread phenomenon. This exposes the parasite’s strategies and the bioactive molecules they produce. As we unravel how parasites interact with their host’s neurophysiology to change behaviour, we also learn more about the regulation of behaviour in general and how sickness behaviours emerge.
The organisms that are currently the main subjects of our studies are the Florida carpenter ant (Camponotus floridanus) and the fungus that turns them into so-called zombie ants: Ophiocordyceps camponoti-floridani. To study parasitic behavioural manipulation in this emerging model system we conduct field studies but mostly use experimental approaches, which combine infection studies, behavioural analyses, multi-omics technology and functional genetics techniques. This integrative approach makes for a vibrant lab in which researchers from various backgrounds and research interests can chase their ambitions. We strive to be an inclusive workplace where everyone can feel comfortable being their authentic selves. We value our differences and believe that we become better scientists and human beings by learning and sharing ideas across race, gender, age, religion, identity, nationality and experiences.
Fungal Research
By studying the infection biology of Ophiocordyceps and related fungi we discover the proteins and small molecules that they employ to interact with their hosts. These molecules have potential medicinal and pest management applications.
Ant Research
We study how fungal infections affect animal physiology and behaviour using carpenter ants and other invertebrates as a model. This improves our understanding of host immune responses to fungal infections and the molecular pathways underlying insect behaviour.
Teaching and Outreach
We are also involved in a myriad of outreach and teaching efforts. Zombie-making parasites provide an engaging topic to teach about the scientific process and demonstrate how fundamental research can be fun and exciting, while also leading to meaningful applications.
Latest publications
Functional Ecology
Will, I., Linehan, S., Jenkins, D.G., De Bekker, C., (2023): Natural history and ecological effects on the establishment and fate of Florida carpenter ant cadavers infected by the parasitic manipulator Ophiocordyceps camponoti-floridani. doi.org/10.1111/1365-2435.14224
Animal Behaviour
Beckerson, W.C., Krider, C., Mohammad, U.A., de Bekker, C. (2023): 28 minutes later: investigating the role of aflatrem-like compounds in Ophiocordyceps parasite manipulation of zombie ants. doi.org/10.1016/j.anbehav.2023.06.011
Past and Current Funding
Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions Postdoctoral Fellowship
Alexander von Humboldt Postdoctoral Fellowship
National Science Foundation Early CAREER Award
European Research Council Consolidator Award