Thesis subject

The planarian flatworm as a model organism for neuroscience and behavior

Planarian flatworms are true masters of regeneration, which includes the ability to regrow an entire brain after head amputation.

Despite its high degree of plasticity, the planarian brain shares many characteristics with the vertebrate brain, such as a bilateral symmetry and similar neurotransmitters. Having a vertebrate-like brain, which however can completely regenerate or be transplanted, and which is turning over very quickly, makes these worms exciting model system for neuroscience and behavior research.

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We offer several projects, which aim to gain basic understanding of planarian behavior and brain function.

How do the worms navigate their environment? Which effect has the turnover rate on brain functionality? What can we learn about brain function from transplanting the brain?  

Skills you will be using/learning are:

  • Handling of planarian worms
  • Setting up behavioral experiments
  • 3D printing
  • In situ hybridization
  • Microscopy
  • Image analysis

Are you interested? Please contact via ezo.thesis@wur.nl.