Laser ablation of Drosophila embryonic motoneurons causes ectopic innervation of target muscle fibers

摘要: We have tested the effects of neuromuscular denervation in Drosophila by laser-ablating RP motoneurons intact embryos before synaptogenesis. examined consequences this ablation on local synaptic connectivity both 1st and 3rd instar larvae. find that partial or complete loss native innervation correlates with appearance alternate inputs from neighboring motor endings axons. These collateral are found at ectopic sites denervated target muscle fibers. The foreign electrophysiologically functional observed fibers larval stage. Our data consistent existence a signal environment, which is regulated influences connectivity. results show that, despite stereotypy connections, can induce changes wild-type Drosophila, suggesting mechanisms plasticity may also be involved normal development.