Activity Regulates Neuronal Connectivity and Function in the C. elegans Motor Circuit: A Dissertation

摘要: Activity plays diverse roles in shaping neuronal development and function. These range from aiding synaptic refinement to triggering cell death during traumatic brain injury. Though the importance of activity-dependent mechanisms is widely recognized, genetic underpinnings these processes have not been fully described. In this thesis, I use motor circuit Caenorhabditis elegans as a model system explore functional morphological consequences modulating activity. First, used gain-of-function ionotropic receptor hyperactivate neurons asked how increased excitation affects Through work, identified pathway triggered by excess activation neurons. also showed that suppression body failed block axon destabilization, providing evidence axons can be genetically separated. Secondly, removed excitatory drive simple neural loss activity alters master regulators inhibitory connectivity. Additionally, was able identify previously undescribed for regulating synapses both developing mature circuits. Finally, show data implicate highly conserved genes neurexin neuroligin determining synapse Collectively work has lent insight into place regulate function, core function neurobiology relevant study wide neurological disorders.