Frigard said animal models can be helpful in answering questions that might shed light on our own health.
“There are many connections between pregnancy and sleep in humans, so we’re excited to learn more about it in this model insect,” Frigard said.
Other study co-authors include Benoit; UC students Gabrielle LeFevre and Lilian Ezemuoka; and Sinead English from the University of Bristol.
LeFevre, a chemistry major, said one advantage of studying at UC is the chance to participate in original research as an undergraduate.
“It is a great opportunity that I would wholeheartedly recommend,” LeFevre said. “Not only do you get to meet and work with such amazing and inspiring people, but you also develop both personally and professionally. This is especially true in Dr. Benoit’s lab, where everyone is so encouraging and collaborative. It is wonderful to be able to see discovery in action.”
Featured image at top: UC Professor Joshua Benoit and his students are studying the importance of sleep in Pacific beetle-mimic cockroaches. Photo/Andrew Higley/UC Marketing + Brand