Serotonergic modulation of visual neurons in Drosophila melanogaster

摘要: Abstract Sensory systems rely on neuromodulators, such as serotonin, to provide flexibility for information processing in the face of a highly variable stimulus space. Serotonergic neurons broadly innervate optic ganglia Drosophila melanogaster, widely used model studying vision. The role serotonergic signaling lobe and mechanisms by which serotonin regulates visual remain unclear. Here we map expression patterns receptors system, focusing subset cells with processes first ganglion, lamina, show that can modulate responses. Serotonin are expressed several types columnar lamina including 5-HT2B monopolar cell L2, required initial steps processing, both 5-HT1A 5-HT1B T1 cells, whose function is unknown. Subcellular mapping GFP-tagged constructs indicates these localize layer M2 medulla, proximal boutons, suggesting medulla primary site regulation neurons. increases intracellular calcium L2 terminals alters kinetics visually induced transients following dark flashes. These effects were not observed flies without functional 5-HT2B, displayed severe differences amplitude their response light While did detect receptor L1 neurons, they also undergo serotonin-induced changes, presumably via non-autonomous pathways. We data showing neuromodulation initiating establish new platform investigating sensory networks. Author Summary melanogaster eye, but known. found all neuropils identify specific involved express receptors. then demonstrate activation alter how processed. This study contributes understanding biology modulation circuits.