The effects that specific molecules, in particular secondary metabolites of the class of non-protein amino acids, may exert on the survival and behaviour of pollinating insects. The research highlighted the presence in the nectar of non-protein amino acids such as GABA and beta-alanine which are also neuro modulators active in the nervous system of insects and able to influence their behavior. These compounds were tested on model pollinating insects such as honeybees, bumblebees and Mason bees..
For this research line the MAEC Lab collaborates with: Department of Veterinary Sciences (University of Pisa); Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences (University of Bologna); Agriculture and Environment Research Center (CREA, Bologna)