Gene that makes insect climb after infection isolated

An article in Discover magazine reports that Kelli Hoover and Michael Grove from Pennsylvania State University have just discovered one of the genes – LdMNPV – thatBaculovirus uses to control its moth hosts. After infection by the virus the moth will climb to a high place, ideally suited for the virus to spread its spores after the moth is killed in this prime location.

Many Cordyceps species direct their victims into locations that are optimal for host digestion and spore dispersal - i.e. Ophiocordyceps unilateralis, and they might use similar strategies as described in this interesting article. Don't forget to check out the links at the bottom of the article.

Reference: Hoover, K., M. Grove, M. Gardner, D.P. Hughes, J. McNeil and J. Slavicek. 2011. A gene for an extended phenotype. Science 333: 1401.