Drosophila polymodal nociceptors use precipitous fluctuation of the firing rate, which depends on Ca²⁺ influx, as a key signal encoding a heat sensation and evoking the robust heat avoidance behavior.

Electron-donating nucleophilic compounds activate TRPA1 ion channels in fruit flies and mosquitoes, but not humans, making TRPA1 a promising target for insect repellants.