Manduca sexta is a model organism in insect physiology. For a recent experiment, Edwin “Ted” R. Burgess, Ph.D. prepared a batch of M. sexta larvae in a standard diet laced with potential immunosuppressant compounds. How these compounds affect immunological processes, including hemocyte function and behavioral fever, are of interest to Burgess. Through this research, he says he hopes to improve biological control methods, including use of parasitoids, and entomopathogenic organisms. (Photo credit: Edwin R. Burgess, Ph.D.)