CAREER: Neural and behavioral modulation by developmental temperature changes

Establishing how early-life environments shape brain function is critical for maintaining the health and stability of our natural resources. This research investigates how brief periods of elevated temperature during early development—a common occurrence in many aquatic ecosystems—can permanently alter an animal’s ability to forage and avoid predators, skills that are absolutely essential for survival in the wild. By identifying the specific biological tipping points where heat begins to change brain function and behavior, this project provides a vital predictive framework for managing ecologically and economically important animal groups, such as the fish populations vital to various economies. These findings are particularly relevant as biological systems are intrinsically sensitive to temperature, and even minor failures to adapt can lead to a total loss of function in certain species. Beyond the immediate biological findings, the project serves as a cornerstone for workforce development by providing specialized, hands-on training in high-demand fields like neuroscience and data science to approximately 200 students. This investment ensures a workforce that remains a leader in scientific and economic innovation while preparing the next generation of researchers to tackle complex challenges. This project advances NSF’s priorities in Biotechnology and Artificial Intelligence. The primary objective of this study is to determine the neurophysiological and molecular mechanisms through which elevated temperature during development (ETDD) modulates vertebrate sensorimotor performance. Utilizing a larval zebrafish model, the project focuses on a conserved search behavior as a precise, observable readout for identifying thermal sensitivity in specific brain regions. The research aims to test the hypothesis that ETDD imposes sustained functional changes in the thalamus by modulating the Notch signaling pathway, which is known to regulate neuron number and cell identity. Through a sophisticated combination of functional calcium imaging to track neural activity, electrophysiology to measure motor drive, and RNAseq to identify genetic changes, this work will establish foundational knowledge on how early-life abiotic factors shape brain circuitry and behavioral variability. This includes determining if ETDD impacts broader behavioral repertoires. These findings will be further validated through cross-species comparative testing using species like P. promelas and A. mexicanus to determine if this thermal sensitivity is an evolutionarily conserved phenomenon across different teleost fish. Ultimately, this multi-disciplinary approach aims to connect experience, physiology, and behavior to address a major gap in our understanding of how external factors contribute to long-term brain function. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.