Activating MsAHns in a Putative Inhibitory CDC in D. melanogaster and Associated Behavioral Responses

Andrew Cook,* Kaleb Hatch, Kevin Daly and Malia Miller, Department of Biology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506

Field (Broad Category): Biology (Biological & Biochemical Sciences) 

Student’s Major: Biochemistry 

In Drosophila melanogaster, a pair of mesothoracic ascending histaminergic neurons (MsAHns) project up to mechanosensory processing regions of the brain, the saddle and vest. Building on research in Manduca Sexta, it is thought that these neurons may be part of a corollary discharge circuit used to distinguish selfmade mechanosensory stimuli from external stimuli of the same nature. Through the use of optogenetic techniques, MsAHn activation can be induced during mechanosensory behaviors, such as grooming, and the actual effects of the MsAHns can begin to be determined. In addition, the structural properties of the MsAHn are being examined through track tracing via an electron microscopy dataset in order to provide structural evidence for the function of the neurons. Preliminary data suggests overdriving the cells results in the cessation of mechanosensory behavior and that the structure of the MsAHns is consistent with immunohistochemistry data. The results of these experiments are expected to connect the structure of the MsAHns to the behavioral relevance of the neurons. 

Funding: U.S. Air Force 

Program/mechanism supporting research/creative efforts: WVU's Research Apprenticeship Program (RAP) & accompanying HONR 297-level course