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Shiozaki HM, Wang K, Lillvis JL, Xu M, Dickson BJ, Stern DL. Activity of nested neural circuits drives different courtship songs in Drosophila. Nat Neurosci 2024:10.1038/s41593-024-01738-9. [PMID: 39198658 DOI: 10.1038/s41593-024-01738-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024]
Abstract
Motor systems implement diverse motor programs to pattern behavioral sequences, yet how different motor actions are controlled on a moment-by-moment basis remains unclear. Here, we investigated the neural circuit mechanisms underlying the control of distinct courtship songs in Drosophila. Courting males rapidly alternate between two types of song: pulse and sine. By recording calcium signals in the ventral nerve cord in singing flies, we found that one neural population is active during both songs, whereas an expanded neural population, which includes neurons from the first population, is active during pulse song. Brain recordings showed that this nested activation pattern is present in two descending pathways required for singing. Connectomic analysis reveals that these two descending pathways provide structured input to ventral nerve cord neurons in a manner consistent with their activation patterns. These results suggest that nested premotor circuit activity, directed by distinct descending signals, enables rapid switching between motor actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi M Shiozaki
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA.
| | - Kaiyu Wang
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Joshua L Lillvis
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | - Min Xu
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | - Barry J Dickson
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
- Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - David L Stern
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA.
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Watanabe K, Chiu H, Anderson DJ. HI-FISH: WHOLE BRAIN IN SITU MAPPING OF NEURONAL ACTIVATION IN DROSOPHILA DURING SOCIAL BEHAVIORS AND OPTOGENETIC STIMULATION. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.09.28.560045. [PMID: 37808781 PMCID: PMC10557720 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.28.560045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Monitoring neuronal activity at single-cell resolution in freely moving Drosophila engaged in social behaviors is challenging because of their small size and lack of transparency. Extant methods, such as Flyception, are highly invasive. Whole-brain calcium imaging in head-fixed, walking flies is feasible but the animals cannot perform the consummatory phases of social behaviors like aggression or mating under these conditions. This has left open the fundamental question of whether neurons identified as functionally important for such behaviors using loss- or gain-of-function screens are actually active during the natural performance of such behaviors, and if so during which phase(s). Here we perform brain-wide mapping of active cells expressing the Immediate Early Gene hr38 using a high-sensitivity/low background FISH amplification method called HCR-3.0. Using double-labeling for hr38 mRNA and for GFP, we describe the activity of several classes of aggression-promoting neurons during courtship and aggression, including P1 a cells, an intensively studied population of male-specific interneurons. Using HI-FISH in combination with optogenetic activation of aggression-promoting neurons (opto-HI-FISH) we identify candidate downstream functional targets of these cells in a brain-wide, unbiased manner. Finally we compare the activity of P1 a neurons during sequential performance of courtship and aggression, using intronic vs. exonic hr38 probes to differentiate newly synthesized nuclear transcripts from cytoplasmic transcripts synthesized at an earlier time. These data provide evidence suggesting that different subsets of P1 a neurons may be active during courtship vs. aggression. HI-FISH and associated methods may help to fill an important lacuna in the armamentarium of tools for neural circuit analysis in Drosophila .
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Tao L, Ayembem D, Barranca VJ, Bhandawat V. Neurons underlying aggressive actions that are shared by both males and females in Drosophila. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.26.582148. [PMID: 38464020 PMCID: PMC10925114 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.26.582148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Aggression involves both sexually monomorphic and dimorphic actions. How the brain implements these two types of actions is poorly understood. We found that a set of neurons, which we call CL062, previously shown to mediate male aggression also mediate female aggression. These neurons elicit aggression acutely and without the presence of a target. Although the same set of actions is elicited in males and females, the overall behavior is sexually dimorphic. The CL062 neurons do not express fruitless , a gene required for sexual dimorphism in flies, and expressed by most other neurons important for controlling fly aggression. Connectomic analysis suggests that these neurons have limited connections with fruitless expressing neurons that have been shown to be important for aggression, and signal to different descending neurons. Thus, CL062 is part of a monomorphic circuit for aggression that functions parallel to the known dimorphic circuits.
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Sten TH, Li R, Hollunder F, Eleazer S, Ruta V. Male-male interactions shape mate selection in Drosophila. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.11.03.565582. [PMID: 37961193 PMCID: PMC10635267 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.03.565582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Males of many species have evolved behavioral traits to both attract females and repel rivals. Here, we explore mate selection in Drosophila from both the male and female perspective to shed light on how these key components of sexual selection - female choice and male-male competition - work in concert to guide reproductive strategies. We find that male flies fend off competing suitors by interleaving their courtship of a female with aggressive wing flicks, which both repel competitors and generate a 'song' that obscures the female's auditory perception of other potential mates. Two higher-order circuit nodes - P1a and pC1x neurons - are coordinately recruited to allow males to flexibly interleave these agonistic actions with courtship displays, assuring they persistently pursue females until their rival falters. Together, our results suggest that female mating decisions are shaped by male-male interactions, underscoring how a male's ability to subvert his rivals is central to his reproductive success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Hindmarsh Sten
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Behavior, The Rockefeller University and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, New York, NY, USA
- Present address: Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA
| | - Rufei Li
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Behavior, The Rockefeller University and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Florian Hollunder
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Behavior, The Rockefeller University and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Shadé Eleazer
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Behavior, The Rockefeller University and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Vanessa Ruta
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Behavior, The Rockefeller University and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, New York, NY, USA
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5
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Coleman RT, Morantte I, Koreman GT, Cheng ML, Ding Y, Ruta V. A modular circuit architecture coordinates the diversification of courtship strategies in Drosophila. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.16.558080. [PMID: 37745588 PMCID: PMC10516016 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.16.558080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Identifying a mate is a central imperative for males of most species but poses the challenge of distinguishing a suitable partner from an array of potential male competitors or females of related species. Mate recognition systems are thus subject to strong selective pressures, driving the rapid coevolution of female sensory cues and male sensory preferences. Here we leverage the rapid evolution of female pheromones across the Drosophila genus to gain insight into how males coordinately adapt their detection and interpretation of these chemical cues to hone their mating strategies. While in some Drosophila species females produce unique pheromones that act to attract and arouse their conspecific males, the pheromones of most species are sexually monomorphic such that females possess no distinguishing chemosensory signatures that males can use for mate recognition. By comparing several close and distantly-related Drosophila species, we reveal that D. yakuba males have evolved the distinct ability to use a sexually-monomorphic pheromone, 7-tricosene (7-T), as an excitatory cue to promote courtship, a sensory innovation that enables D. yakuba males to court in the dark thereby expanding their reproductive opportunities. To gain insight into the neural adaptations that enable 7-T to act as an excitatory cue, we compared the functional properties of two key nodes within the pheromone circuits of D. yakuba and a subset of its closest relatives. We show that the instructive role of 7-T in D. yakuba arises from concurrent peripheral and central circuit changes: a distinct subpopulation of sensory neurons has acquired sensitivity to 7-T which in turn selectively signals to a distinct subset of P1 neurons in the central brain that trigger courtship behaviors. Such a modular circuit organization, in which different sensory inputs can independently couple to multiple parallel courtship control nodes, may facilitate the evolution of mate recognition systems by allowing males to take advantage of novel sensory modalities to become aroused. Together, our findings suggest how peripheral and central circuit adaptations can be flexibly linked to underlie the rapid evolution of mate recognition and courtship strategies across species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rory T. Coleman
- Laboatory of Neurophysiology and Behavior and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY
| | - Ianessa Morantte
- Laboatory of Neurophysiology and Behavior and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY
| | - Gabriel T. Koreman
- Laboatory of Neurophysiology and Behavior and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY
| | - Megan L. Cheng
- Laboatory of Neurophysiology and Behavior and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY
| | - Yun Ding
- Department of Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Vanessa Ruta
- Laboatory of Neurophysiology and Behavior and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY
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6
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Shen P, Wan X, Wu F, Shi K, Li J, Gao H, Zhao L, Zhou C. Neural circuit mechanisms linking courtship and reward in Drosophila males. Curr Biol 2023; 33:2034-2050.e8. [PMID: 37160122 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2023.04.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Courtship has evolved to achieve reproductive success in animal species. However, whether courtship itself has a positive value remains unclear. In the present work, we report that courtship is innately rewarding and can induce the expression of appetitive short-term memory (STM) and long-term memory (LTM) in Drosophila melanogaster males. Activation of male-specific P1 neurons is sufficient to mimic courtship-induced preference and memory performance. Surprisingly, P1 neurons functionally connect to a large proportion of dopaminergic neurons (DANs) in the protocerebral anterior medial (PAM) cluster. The acquisition of STM and LTM depends on two distinct subsets of PAM DANs that convey the courtship-reward signal to the restricted regions of the mushroom body (MB) γ and α/β lobes through two dopamine receptors, D1-like Dop1R1 and D2-like Dop2R. Furthermore, the retrieval of STM stored in the MB α'/β' lobes and LTM stored in the MB α/β lobe relies on two distinct MB output neurons. Finally, LTM consolidation requires two subsets of PAM DANs projecting to the MB α/β lobe and corresponding MB output neurons. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that courtship is a potent rewarding stimulus and reveal the underlying neural circuit mechanisms linking courtship and reward in Drosophila males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
| | - Xiaolu Wan
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Fengming Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Kai Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jing Li
- Institute of Molecular Physiology, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518132, China
| | - Hongjiang Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Lilin Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
| | - Chuan Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; Institute of Molecular Physiology, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518132, China
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7
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Medina-Villalobos N, Avila R, Marsal M, Andilla J, Loza-Álvarez P, Ojeda-Ramírez MM, Tamariz E. Infrared Laser Effects on Cell Projection Depend on Irradiation Intermittence and Cell Activity. Cells 2023; 12:540. [PMID: 36831208 PMCID: PMC9954793 DOI: 10.3390/cells12040540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Highly focused near-infrared (NIR) lasers have been used to induce fibroblast and neuron protrusions in a technique called optical guidance. However, little is known about the biochemical and biophysical effects that the laser provokes in the cell and optimal protocols of stimulation have not yet been established. Using intermittent NIR laser radiation and multivariate time series representations of cell leading edge movement, we analyzed the direction and velocity of cell protrusions. We found that the orientation and advance of PC12 neuron phenotype cells and 3T3 fibroblasts protrusions remain after the laser is turned off, but the observed increase in velocity stops when radiation ceases. For an increase in the speed and distance of cell protrusions by NIR laser irradiation, the cell leading edge needs to be advancing prior to the stimulation, and NIR irradiation does not enable the cell to switch between retracting and advancing states. Using timelapse imaging of actin-GFP, we observed that NIR irradiation induces a faster recruitment of actin, promoting filament formation at the induced cell protrusions. These results provide fresh evidence to understand the phenomenon of the optical guidance of cell protrusions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Remy Avila
- Centro de Física Aplicada y Tecnología Avanzada, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), A.P. 1-1010, Juriquilla 76000, Querétaro, Mexico
| | - María Marsal
- ICFO-Institut de Ciencies Fotoniques, The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08860 Castelldefels, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jordi Andilla
- ICFO-Institut de Ciencies Fotoniques, The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08860 Castelldefels, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pablo Loza-Álvarez
- ICFO-Institut de Ciencies Fotoniques, The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08860 Castelldefels, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Elisa Tamariz
- Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Veracruzana, Xalapa 91190, Veracruz, Mexico
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8
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Aslam N, Zhou H, Urbach EK, Turner MJ, Walsworth RL, Lukin MD, Park H. Quantum sensors for biomedical applications. NATURE REVIEWS. PHYSICS 2023; 5:157-169. [PMID: 36776813 PMCID: PMC9896461 DOI: 10.1038/s42254-023-00558-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Quantum sensors are finding their way from laboratories to the real world, as witnessed by the increasing number of start-ups in this field. The atomic length scale of quantum sensors and their coherence properties enable unprecedented spatial resolution and sensitivity. Biomedical applications could benefit from these quantum technologies, but it is often difficult to evaluate the potential impact of the techniques. This Review sheds light on these questions, presenting the status of quantum sensing applications and discussing their path towards commercialization. The focus is on two promising quantum sensing platforms: optically pumped atomic magnetometers, and nitrogen-vacancy centres in diamond. The broad spectrum of biomedical applications is highlighted by four case studies ranging from brain imaging to single-cell spectroscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nabeel Aslam
- Department of Physics, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA USA
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA USA
- Institute of Condensed Matter Physics, Technische Universität Braunschweig, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Hengyun Zhou
- Department of Physics, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA USA
| | - Elana K. Urbach
- Department of Physics, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA USA
| | - Matthew J. Turner
- Quantum Technology Center, University of Maryland, College Park, MD USA
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD USA
| | - Ronald L. Walsworth
- Quantum Technology Center, University of Maryland, College Park, MD USA
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD USA
- Department of Physics, University of Maryland, College Park, MD USA
| | | | - Hongkun Park
- Department of Physics, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA USA
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA USA
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9
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Ribeiro IMA, Eßbauer W, Kutlesa R, Borst A. Spatial and temporal control of expression with light-gated LOV-LexA. G3 GENES|GENOMES|GENETICS 2022; 12:6649684. [PMID: 35876796 PMCID: PMC9526042 DOI: 10.1093/g3journal/jkac178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
The ability to drive expression of exogenous genes in different tissues and cell types, under the control of specific enhancers, has been crucial for discovery in biology. While many enhancers drive expression broadly, several genetic tools were developed to obtain access to isolated cell types. Studies of spatially organized neuropiles in the central nervous system of fruit flies have raised the need for a system that targets subsets of cells within a single neuronal type, a feat currently dependent on stochastic flip-out methods. To access the same cells within a given expression pattern consistently across fruit flies, we developed the light-gated expression system LOV-LexA. We combined the bacterial LexA transcription factor with the plant-derived light, oxygen, or voltage photosensitive domain and a fluorescent protein. Exposure to blue light uncages a nuclear localizing signal in the C-terminal of the light, oxygen, or voltage domain and leads to the translocation of LOV-LexA to the nucleus, with the subsequent initiation of transcription. LOV-LexA enables spatial and temporal control of expression of transgenes under LexAop sequences in larval fat body and pupal and adult neurons with blue light. The LOV-LexA tool is ready to use with GAL4 and Split-GAL4 drivers in its current form and constitutes another layer of intersectional genetics that provides light-controlled genetic access to specific cells across flies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês M A Ribeiro
- Department of Circuits-Computations-Models, Max Planck Institute of Neurobiology , 82152 Martinsried, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Eßbauer
- Department of Circuits-Computations-Models, Max Planck Institute of Neurobiology , 82152 Martinsried, Germany
| | - Romina Kutlesa
- Department of Circuits-Computations-Models, Max Planck Institute of Neurobiology , 82152 Martinsried, Germany
| | - Alexander Borst
- Department of Circuits-Computations-Models, Max Planck Institute of Neurobiology , 82152 Martinsried, Germany
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10
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Flavell SW, Gogolla N, Lovett-Barron M, Zelikowsky M. The emergence and influence of internal states. Neuron 2022; 110:2545-2570. [PMID: 35643077 PMCID: PMC9391310 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2022.04.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Animal behavior is shaped by a variety of "internal states"-partially hidden variables that profoundly shape perception, cognition, and action. The neural basis of internal states, such as fear, arousal, hunger, motivation, aggression, and many others, is a prominent focus of research efforts across animal phyla. Internal states can be inferred from changes in behavior, physiology, and neural dynamics and are characterized by properties such as pleiotropy, persistence, scalability, generalizability, and valence. To date, it remains unclear how internal states and their properties are generated by nervous systems. Here, we review recent progress, which has been driven by advances in behavioral quantification, cellular manipulations, and neural population recordings. We synthesize research implicating defined subsets of state-inducing cell types, widespread changes in neural activity, and neuromodulation in the formation and updating of internal states. In addition to highlighting the significance of these findings, our review advocates for new approaches to clarify the underpinnings of internal brain states across the animal kingdom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven W Flavell
- Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.
| | - Nadine Gogolla
- Emotion Research Department, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, 80804 Munich, Germany; Circuits for Emotion Research Group, Max Planck Institute of Neurobiology, 82152 Martinsried, Germany.
| | - Matthew Lovett-Barron
- Division of Biological Sciences-Neurobiology Section, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
| | - Moriel Zelikowsky
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA.
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Christiansen MG, Schuerle S. Multi-channel control of fruit fly behaviour. NATURE MATERIALS 2022; 21:840-842. [PMID: 35761061 DOI: 10.1038/s41563-022-01305-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael G Christiansen
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Institute for Translational Medicine, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Simone Schuerle
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Institute for Translational Medicine, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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12
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Neural Control of Action Selection Among Innate Behaviors. Neurosci Bull 2022; 38:1541-1558. [PMID: 35633465 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-022-00886-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Nervous systems must not only generate specific adaptive behaviors, such as reproduction, aggression, feeding, and sleep, but also select a single behavior for execution at any given time, depending on both internal states and external environmental conditions. Despite their tremendous biological importance, the neural mechanisms of action selection remain poorly understood. In the past decade, studies in the model animal Drosophila melanogaster have demonstrated valuable neural mechanisms underlying action selection of innate behaviors. In this review, we summarize circuit mechanisms with a particular focus on a small number of sexually dimorphic neurons in controlling action selection among sex, fight, feeding, and sleep behaviors in both sexes of flies. We also discuss potentially conserved circuit configurations and neuromodulation of action selection in both the fly and mouse models, aiming to provide insights into action selection and the sexually dimorphic prioritization of innate behaviors.
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13
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Liu M, Kumar S, Sharma AK, Leifer AM. A high-throughput method to deliver targeted optogenetic stimulation to moving C. elegans populations. PLoS Biol 2022; 20:e3001524. [PMID: 35089912 PMCID: PMC8827482 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3001524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
We present a high-throughput optogenetic illumination system capable of simultaneous closed-loop light delivery to specified targets in populations of moving Caenorhabditis elegans. The instrument addresses three technical challenges: It delivers targeted illumination to specified regions of the animal's body such as its head or tail; it automatically delivers stimuli triggered upon the animal's behavior; and it achieves high throughput by targeting many animals simultaneously. The instrument was used to optogenetically probe the animal's behavioral response to competing mechanosensory stimuli in the the anterior and posterior gentle touch receptor neurons. Responses to more than 43,418 stimulus events from a range of anterior-posterior intensity combinations were measured. The animal's probability of sprinting forward in response to a mechanosensory stimulus depended on both the anterior and posterior stimulation intensity, while the probability of reversing depended primarily on the anterior stimulation intensity. We also probed the animal's response to mechanosensory stimulation during the onset of turning, a relatively rare behavioral event, by delivering stimuli automatically when the animal began to turn. Using this closed-loop approach, over 9,700 stimulus events were delivered during turning onset at a rate of 9.2 events per worm hour, a greater than 25-fold increase in throughput compared to previous investigations. These measurements validate with greater statistical power previous findings that turning acts to gate mechanosensory evoked reversals. Compared to previous approaches, the current system offers targeted optogenetic stimulation to specific body regions or behaviors with many fold increases in throughput to better constrain quantitative models of sensorimotor processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mochi Liu
- Department of Physics, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Sandeep Kumar
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Anuj K. Sharma
- Department of Physics, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Andrew M. Leifer
- Department of Physics, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey, United States of America
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey, United States of America
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14
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Croteau-Chonka EC, Clayton MS, Venkatasubramanian L, Harris SN, Jones BMW, Narayan L, Winding M, Masson JB, Zlatic M, Klein KT. High-throughput automated methods for classical and operant conditioning of Drosophila larvae. eLife 2022; 11:70015. [PMID: 36305588 PMCID: PMC9678368 DOI: 10.7554/elife.70015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Learning which stimuli (classical conditioning) or which actions (operant conditioning) predict rewards or punishments can improve chances of survival. However, the circuit mechanisms that underlie distinct types of associative learning are still not fully understood. Automated, high-throughput paradigms for studying different types of associative learning, combined with manipulation of specific neurons in freely behaving animals, can help advance this field. The Drosophila melanogaster larva is a tractable model system for studying the circuit basis of behaviour, but many forms of associative learning have not yet been demonstrated in this animal. Here, we developed a high-throughput (i.e. multi-larva) training system that combines real-time behaviour detection of freely moving larvae with targeted opto- and thermogenetic stimulation of tracked animals. Both stimuli are controlled in either open- or closed-loop, and delivered with high temporal and spatial precision. Using this tracker, we show for the first time that Drosophila larvae can perform classical conditioning with no overlap between sensory stimuli (i.e. trace conditioning). We also demonstrate that larvae are capable of operant conditioning by inducing a bend direction preference through optogenetic activation of reward-encoding serotonergic neurons. Our results extend the known associative learning capacities of Drosophila larvae. Our automated training rig will facilitate the study of many different forms of associative learning and the identification of the neural circuits that underpin them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise C Croteau-Chonka
- Department of Zoology, University of CambridgeCambridgeUnited Kingdom,Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical InstituteAshburnUnited States
| | | | | | | | | | - Lakshmi Narayan
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical InstituteAshburnUnited States
| | - Michael Winding
- Department of Zoology, University of CambridgeCambridgeUnited Kingdom,Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical InstituteAshburnUnited States
| | - Jean-Baptiste Masson
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical InstituteAshburnUnited States,Decision and Bayesian Computation, Neuroscience Department & Computational Biology Department, Institut PasteurParisFrance
| | - Marta Zlatic
- Department of Zoology, University of CambridgeCambridgeUnited Kingdom,Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical InstituteAshburnUnited States,MRC Laboratory of Molecular BiologyCambridgeUnited Kingdom
| | - Kristina T Klein
- Department of Zoology, University of CambridgeCambridgeUnited Kingdom,Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical InstituteAshburnUnited States
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15
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Mollá-Albaladejo R, Sánchez-Alcañiz JA. Behavior Individuality: A Focus on Drosophila melanogaster. Front Physiol 2021; 12:719038. [PMID: 34916952 PMCID: PMC8670942 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.719038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Among individuals, behavioral differences result from the well-known interplay of nature and nurture. Minute differences in the genetic code can lead to differential gene expression and function, dramatically affecting developmental processes and adult behavior. Environmental factors, epigenetic modifications, and gene expression and function are responsible for generating stochastic behaviors. In the last decade, the advent of high-throughput sequencing has facilitated studying the genetic basis of behavior and individuality. We can now study the genomes of multiple individuals and infer which genetic variations might be responsible for the observed behavior. In addition, the development of high-throughput behavioral paradigms, where multiple isogenic animals can be analyzed in various environmental conditions, has again facilitated the study of the influence of genetic and environmental variations in animal personality. Mainly, Drosophila melanogaster has been the focus of a great effort to understand how inter-individual behavioral differences emerge. The possibility of using large numbers of animals, isogenic populations, and the possibility of modifying neuronal function has made it an ideal model to search for the origins of individuality. In the present review, we will focus on the recent findings that try to shed light on the emergence of individuality with a particular interest in D. melanogaster.
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16
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Steinfath E, Palacios-Muñoz A, Rottschäfer JR, Yuezak D, Clemens J. Fast and accurate annotation of acoustic signals with deep neural networks. eLife 2021; 10:e68837. [PMID: 34723794 PMCID: PMC8560090 DOI: 10.7554/elife.68837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Acoustic signals serve communication within and across species throughout the animal kingdom. Studying the genetics, evolution, and neurobiology of acoustic communication requires annotating acoustic signals: segmenting and identifying individual acoustic elements like syllables or sound pulses. To be useful, annotations need to be accurate, robust to noise, and fast. We here introduce DeepAudioSegmenter (DAS), a method that annotates acoustic signals across species based on a deep-learning derived hierarchical presentation of sound. We demonstrate the accuracy, robustness, and speed of DAS using acoustic signals with diverse characteristics from insects, birds, and mammals. DAS comes with a graphical user interface for annotating song, training the network, and for generating and proofreading annotations. The method can be trained to annotate signals from new species with little manual annotation and can be combined with unsupervised methods to discover novel signal types. DAS annotates song with high throughput and low latency for experimental interventions in realtime. Overall, DAS is a universal, versatile, and accessible tool for annotating acoustic communication signals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elsa Steinfath
- European Neuroscience Institute - A Joint Initiative of the University Medical Center Göttingen and the Max-Planck-SocietyGöttingenGermany
- International Max Planck Research School and Göttingen Graduate School for Neurosciences, Biophysics, and Molecular Biosciences (GGNB) at the University of GöttingenGöttingenGermany
| | - Adrian Palacios-Muñoz
- European Neuroscience Institute - A Joint Initiative of the University Medical Center Göttingen and the Max-Planck-SocietyGöttingenGermany
- International Max Planck Research School and Göttingen Graduate School for Neurosciences, Biophysics, and Molecular Biosciences (GGNB) at the University of GöttingenGöttingenGermany
| | - Julian R Rottschäfer
- European Neuroscience Institute - A Joint Initiative of the University Medical Center Göttingen and the Max-Planck-SocietyGöttingenGermany
- International Max Planck Research School and Göttingen Graduate School for Neurosciences, Biophysics, and Molecular Biosciences (GGNB) at the University of GöttingenGöttingenGermany
| | - Deniz Yuezak
- European Neuroscience Institute - A Joint Initiative of the University Medical Center Göttingen and the Max-Planck-SocietyGöttingenGermany
- International Max Planck Research School and Göttingen Graduate School for Neurosciences, Biophysics, and Molecular Biosciences (GGNB) at the University of GöttingenGöttingenGermany
| | - Jan Clemens
- European Neuroscience Institute - A Joint Initiative of the University Medical Center Göttingen and the Max-Planck-SocietyGöttingenGermany
- Bernstein Center for Computational NeuroscienceGöttingenGermany
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17
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Cruz TL, Pérez SM, Chiappe ME. Fast tuning of posture control by visual feedback underlies gaze stabilization in walking Drosophila. Curr Biol 2021; 31:4596-4607.e5. [PMID: 34499851 PMCID: PMC8556163 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2021.08.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Locomotion requires a balance between mechanical stability and movement flexibility to achieve behavioral goals despite noisy neuromuscular systems, but rarely is it considered how this balance is orchestrated. We combined virtual reality tools with quantitative analysis of behavior to examine how Drosophila uses self-generated visual information (reafferent visual feedback) to control gaze during exploratory walking. We found that flies execute distinct motor programs coordinated across the body to maximize gaze stability. However, the presence of inherent variability in leg placement relative to the body jeopardizes fine control of gaze due to posture-stabilizing adjustments that lead to unintended changes in course direction. Surprisingly, whereas visual feedback is dispensable for head-body coordination, we found that self-generated visual signals tune postural reflexes to rapidly prevent turns rather than to promote compensatory rotations, a long-standing idea for visually guided course control. Together, these findings support a model in which visual feedback orchestrates the interplay between posture and gaze stability in a manner that is both goal dependent and motor-context specific.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomás L Cruz
- Champalimaud Research, Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown, 1400-038 Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | - M Eugenia Chiappe
- Champalimaud Research, Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown, 1400-038 Lisbon, Portugal.
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18
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Kolesov DV, Sokolinskaya EL, Lukyanov KA, Bogdanov AM. Molecular Tools for Targeted Control of Nerve Cell Electrical Activity. Part II. Acta Naturae 2021; 13:17-32. [PMID: 35127143 PMCID: PMC8807539 DOI: 10.32607/actanaturae.11415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In modern life sciences, the issue of a specific, exogenously directed manipulation of a cell's biochemistry is a highly topical one. In the case of electrically excitable cells, the aim of the manipulation is to control the cells' electrical activity, with the result being either excitation with subsequent generation of an action potential or inhibition and suppression of the excitatory currents. The techniques of electrical activity stimulation are of particular significance in tackling the most challenging basic problem: figuring out how the nervous system of higher multicellular organisms functions. At this juncture, when neuroscience is gradually abandoning the reductionist approach in favor of the direct investigation of complex neuronal systems, minimally invasive methods for brain tissue stimulation are becoming the basic element in the toolbox of those involved in the field. In this review, we describe three approaches that are based on the delivery of exogenous, genetically encoded molecules sensitive to external stimuli into the nervous tissue. These approaches include optogenetics (overviewed in Part I), as well as chemogenetics and thermogenetics (described here, in Part II), which is significantly different not only in the nature of the stimuli and structure of the appropriate effector proteins, but also in the details of experimental applications. The latter circumstance is an indication that these are rather complementary than competing techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- D. V. Kolesov
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Moscow, 117997 Russia
| | - E. L. Sokolinskaya
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Moscow, 117997 Russia
| | - K. A. Lukyanov
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Moscow, 117997 Russia
| | - A. M. Bogdanov
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Moscow, 117997 Russia
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19
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Sexual arousal gates visual processing during Drosophila courtship. Nature 2021; 595:549-553. [PMID: 34234348 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-021-03714-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Long-lasting internal arousal states motivate and pattern ongoing behaviour, enabling the temporary emergence of innate behavioural programs that serve the needs of an animal, such as fighting, feeding, and mating. However, how internal states shape sensory processing or behaviour remains unclear. In Drosophila, male flies perform a lengthy and elaborate courtship ritual that is triggered by the activation of sexually dimorphic P1 neurons1-5, during which they faithfully follow and sing to a female6,7. Here, by recording from males as they court a virtual 'female', we gain insight into how the salience of visual cues is transformed by a male's internal arousal state to give rise to persistent courtship pursuit. The gain of LC10a visual projection neurons is selectively increased during courtship, enhancing their sensitivity to moving targets. A concise network model indicates that visual signalling through the LC10a circuit, once amplified by P1-mediated arousal, almost fully specifies a male's tracking of a female. Furthermore, P1 neuron activity correlates with ongoing fluctuations in the intensity of a male's pursuit to continuously tune the gain of the LC10a pathway. Together, these results reveal how a male's internal state can dynamically modulate the propagation of visual signals through a high-fidelity visuomotor circuit to guide his moment-to-moment performance of courtship.
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20
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21
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Straw AD. Review of methods for animal videography using camera systems that automatically move to follow the animal. Integr Comp Biol 2021; 61:917-925. [PMID: 34117754 DOI: 10.1093/icb/icab126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Digital photography and videography provide rich data for the study of animal behavior and are consequently widely used techniques. For fixed, unmoving cameras, the image sensor and optics govern the field of view and spatial detail. For a given sensor resolution, the optics determine a tradeoff between high magnification in which high spatial detail from a restricted field of view is obtained versus low magnification in which lower spatial detail is obtained from a larger region. In addition to this geometric resolution versus field of view tradeoff, limited light availability establishes a physical limit when imaging movement. If the animal is moving, motion blur smears the subject on the sensor during exposure. Practically, motion blur is further compounded by sensor inefficiency and noise. While these fundamental tradeoffs with stationary cameras can be sidestepped by employing multiple cameras and providing additional illumination, this may not always be desirable. An alternative that overcomes these issues of stationary cameras is to direct a high magnification camera at an animal continually as it moves. Here we review systems in which automatic tracking is used to maintain an animal in the working volume of a moving optical path. Such methods provide an opportunity to escape the tradeoff between resolution and field of view and also to reduce motion blur while still enabling automated image acquisition. We argue that further development will be useful and outline potential innovations that may improve the technology and lead to more widespread use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew D Straw
- Institute of Biology I and Bernstein Center Freiburg, Faculty of Biology, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, Germany
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22
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Pun P, Brown J, Cobb T, Wessells RJ, Kim DH. Navigation of a Freely Walking Fruit Fly in Infinite Space Using a Transparent Omnidirectional Locomotion Compensator (TOLC). SENSORS 2021; 21:s21051651. [PMID: 33673520 PMCID: PMC7956841 DOI: 10.3390/s21051651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Animal behavior is an essential element in behavioral neuroscience study. However, most behavior studies in small animals such as fruit flies (Drosophilamelanogaster) have been performed in a limited spatial chamber or by tethering the fly's body on a fixture, which restricts its natural behavior. In this paper, we developed the Transparent Omnidirectional Locomotion Compensator (TOLC) for a freely walking fruit fly without tethering, which enables its navigation in infinite space. The TOLC maintains a position of a fruit fly by compensating its motion using the transparent sphere. The TOLC is capable of maintaining the position error < 1 mm for 90.3% of the time and the heading error < 5° for 80.2% of the time. The inverted imaging system with a transparent sphere secures the space for an additional experimental apparatus. Because the proposed TOLC allows us to observe a freely walking fly without physical tethering, there is no potential injury during the experiment. Thus, the TOLC will offer a unique opportunity to investigate longitudinal studies of a wide range of behavior in an unrestricted walking Drosophila.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pikam Pun
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Energy Processes, Southern Illinois University Carbondale, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA;
| | - Jacobs Brown
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Kennesaw State University, Marietta, GA 30060, USA;
| | - Tyler Cobb
- Department of Physiology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; (T.C.); (R.J.W.)
| | - Robert J. Wessells
- Department of Physiology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; (T.C.); (R.J.W.)
| | - Dal Hyung Kim
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Kennesaw State University, Marietta, GA 30060, USA;
- Correspondence:
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23
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Walter T, Couzin ID. TRex, a fast multi-animal tracking system with markerless identification, and 2D estimation of posture and visual fields. eLife 2021; 10:64000. [PMID: 33634789 PMCID: PMC8096434 DOI: 10.7554/elife.64000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Automated visual tracking of animals is rapidly becoming an indispensable tool for the study of behavior. It offers a quantitative methodology by which organisms’ sensing and decision-making can be studied in a wide range of ecological contexts. Despite this, existing solutions tend to be challenging to deploy in practice, especially when considering long and/or high-resolution video-streams. Here, we present TRex, a fast and easy-to-use solution for tracking a large number of individuals simultaneously using background-subtraction with real-time (60 Hz) tracking performance for up to approximately 256 individuals and estimates 2D visual-fields, outlines, and head/rear of bilateral animals, both in open and closed-loop contexts. Additionally, TRex offers highly accurate, deep-learning-based visual identification of up to approximately 100 unmarked individuals, where it is between 2.5 and 46.7 times faster, and requires 2–10 times less memory, than comparable software (with relative performance increasing for more organisms/longer videos) and provides interactive data-exploration within an intuitive, platform-independent graphical user-interface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tristan Walter
- Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, Radolfzell, Germany.,Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective Behaviour, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany.,Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Iain D Couzin
- Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, Radolfzell, Germany.,Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective Behaviour, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany.,Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
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24
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Wang K, Wang F, Forknall N, Yang T, Patrick C, Parekh R, Dickson BJ. Neural circuit mechanisms of sexual receptivity in Drosophila females. Nature 2020; 589:577-581. [PMID: 33239786 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-020-2972-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Choosing a mate is one of the most consequential decisions a female will make during her lifetime. A female fly signals her willingness to mate by opening her vaginal plates, allowing a courting male to copulate1,2. Vaginal plate opening (VPO) occurs in response to the male courtship song and is dependent on the mating status of the female. How these exteroceptive (song) and interoceptive (mating status) inputs are integrated to regulate VPO remains unknown. Here we characterize the neural circuitry that implements mating decisions in the brain of female Drosophila melanogaster. We show that VPO is controlled by a pair of female-specific descending neurons (vpoDNs). The vpoDNs receive excitatory input from auditory neurons (vpoENs), which are tuned to specific features of the D. melanogaster song, and from pC1 neurons, which encode the mating status of the female3,4. The song responses of vpoDNs, but not vpoENs, are attenuated upon mating, accounting for the reduced receptivity of mated females. This modulation is mediated by pC1 neurons. The vpoDNs thus directly integrate the external and internal signals that control the mating decisions of Drosophila females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaiyu Wang
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | - Fei Wang
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | - Nora Forknall
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | - Tansy Yang
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | | | - Ruchi Parekh
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | - Barry J Dickson
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA. .,Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia.
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25
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Moulin TC, Covill LE, Itskov PM, Williams MJ, Schiöth HB. Rodent and fly models in behavioral neuroscience: An evaluation of methodological advances, comparative research, and future perspectives. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 120:1-12. [PMID: 33242563 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The assessment of behavioral outcomes is a central component of neuroscientific research, which has required continuous technological innovations to produce more detailed and reliable findings. In this article, we provide an in-depth review on the progress and future implications for three model organisms (mouse, rat, and Drosophila) essential to our current understanding of behavior. By compiling a comprehensive catalog of popular assays, we are able to compare the diversity of tasks and usage of these animal models in behavioral research. This compilation also allows for the evaluation of existing state-of-the-art methods and experimental applications, including optogenetics, machine learning, and high-throughput behavioral assays. We go on to discuss novel apparatuses and inter-species analyses for centrophobism, feeding behavior, aggression and mating paradigms, with the goal of providing a unique view on comparative behavioral research. The challenges and recent advances are evaluated in terms of their translational value, ethical procedures, and trustworthiness for behavioral research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thiago C Moulin
- Functional Pharmacology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Laura E Covill
- Functional Pharmacology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Center for Hematology and Regenerative Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Pavel M Itskov
- Functional Pharmacology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacy, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia; Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Michael J Williams
- Functional Pharmacology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Helgi B Schiöth
- Functional Pharmacology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Institute for Translational Medicine and Biotechnology, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
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26
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Deutsch D, Pacheco D, Encarnacion-Rivera L, Pereira T, Fathy R, Clemens J, Girardin C, Calhoun A, Ireland E, Burke A, Dorkenwald S, McKellar C, Macrina T, Lu R, Lee K, Kemnitz N, Ih D, Castro M, Halageri A, Jordan C, Silversmith W, Wu J, Seung HS, Murthy M. The neural basis for a persistent internal state in Drosophila females. eLife 2020; 9:e59502. [PMID: 33225998 PMCID: PMC7787663 DOI: 10.7554/elife.59502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Sustained changes in mood or action require persistent changes in neural activity, but it has been difficult to identify the neural circuit mechanisms that underlie persistent activity and contribute to long-lasting changes in behavior. Here, we show that a subset of Doublesex+ pC1 neurons in the Drosophila female brain, called pC1d/e, can drive minutes-long changes in female behavior in the presence of males. Using automated reconstruction of a volume electron microscopic (EM) image of the female brain, we map all inputs and outputs to both pC1d and pC1e. This reveals strong recurrent connectivity between, in particular, pC1d/e neurons and a specific subset of Fruitless+ neurons called aIPg. We additionally find that pC1d/e activation drives long-lasting persistent neural activity in brain areas and cells overlapping with the pC1d/e neural network, including both Doublesex+ and Fruitless+ neurons. Our work thus links minutes-long persistent changes in behavior with persistent neural activity and recurrent circuit architecture in the female brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Deutsch
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton UniversityPrincetonUnited States
| | - Diego Pacheco
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton UniversityPrincetonUnited States
| | | | - Talmo Pereira
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton UniversityPrincetonUnited States
| | - Ramie Fathy
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton UniversityPrincetonUnited States
| | - Jan Clemens
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton UniversityPrincetonUnited States
| | - Cyrille Girardin
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton UniversityPrincetonUnited States
| | - Adam Calhoun
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton UniversityPrincetonUnited States
| | - Elise Ireland
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton UniversityPrincetonUnited States
| | - Austin Burke
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton UniversityPrincetonUnited States
| | - Sven Dorkenwald
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton UniversityPrincetonUnited States
- Department of Computer Science, Princeton UniversityPrincetonUnited States
| | - Claire McKellar
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton UniversityPrincetonUnited States
| | - Thomas Macrina
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton UniversityPrincetonUnited States
- Department of Computer Science, Princeton UniversityPrincetonUnited States
| | - Ran Lu
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton UniversityPrincetonUnited States
| | - Kisuk Lee
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton UniversityPrincetonUnited States
- Brain & Cognitive Science Department, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeUnited States
| | - Nico Kemnitz
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton UniversityPrincetonUnited States
| | - Dodam Ih
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton UniversityPrincetonUnited States
| | - Manuel Castro
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton UniversityPrincetonUnited States
| | - Akhilesh Halageri
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton UniversityPrincetonUnited States
| | - Chris Jordan
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton UniversityPrincetonUnited States
| | - William Silversmith
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton UniversityPrincetonUnited States
| | - Jingpeng Wu
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton UniversityPrincetonUnited States
| | - H Sebastian Seung
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton UniversityPrincetonUnited States
- Department of Computer Science, Princeton UniversityPrincetonUnited States
| | - Mala Murthy
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton UniversityPrincetonUnited States
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27
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Bidaye SS, Laturney M, Chang AK, Liu Y, Bockemühl T, Büschges A, Scott K. Two Brain Pathways Initiate Distinct Forward Walking Programs in Drosophila. Neuron 2020; 108:469-485.e8. [PMID: 32822613 PMCID: PMC9435592 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2020.07.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Revised: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
An animal at rest or engaged in stationary behaviors can instantaneously initiate goal-directed walking. How descending brain inputs trigger rapid transitions from a non-walking state to an appropriate walking state is unclear. Here, we identify two neuronal types, P9 and BPN, in the Drosophila brain that, upon activation, initiate and maintain two distinct coordinated walking patterns. P9 drives forward walking with ipsilateral turning, receives inputs from central courtship-promoting neurons and visual projection neurons, and is necessary for a male to pursue a female during courtship. In contrast, BPN drives straight, forward walking and is not required during courtship. BPN is instead recruited during and required for fast, straight, forward walking bouts. Thus, this study reveals separate brain pathways for object-directed walking and fast, straight, forward walking, providing insight into how the brain initiates context-appropriate walking programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salil S Bidaye
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology and Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA.
| | - Meghan Laturney
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology and Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Amy K Chang
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology and Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Yuejiang Liu
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology and Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Till Bockemühl
- Department of Animal Physiology, Institute of Zoology, University of Cologne, 50674 Cologne, Germany
| | - Ansgar Büschges
- Department of Animal Physiology, Institute of Zoology, University of Cologne, 50674 Cologne, Germany
| | - Kristin Scott
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology and Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA.
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28
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Lee SS, Wu MN. Neural circuit mechanisms encoding motivational states in Drosophila. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2020; 64:135-142. [PMID: 32563845 PMCID: PMC7669672 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2020.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Animals engage in motivated behaviors, such as feeding and mating behaviors, to ensure their own survival and the survival of their species. However, the neural circuits mediating the generation and persistence of these motivational drives remain poorly understood. Here we review recent studies on the circuit mechanisms underlying motivational states in Drosophila, with a focus on feeding, courtship, and aggression. These studies shed light on the molecular and cellular mechanisms by, which key drive neurons receive relevant input signals, integrate information, and decide on a specific behavioral output. We also discuss conceptual models for integrating these circuit mechanisms, distinguishing between those for homeostatically-regulated versus non-homeostatically-regulated motivated behaviors. We suggest that the ability to trigger persistence of a motivated behavior may be a feature of integrator or apex/command neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sang Soo Lee
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Mark N Wu
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
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29
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Nourizonoz A, Zimmermann R, Ho CLA, Pellat S, Ormen Y, Prévost-Solié C, Reymond G, Pifferi F, Aujard F, Herrel A, Huber D. EthoLoop: automated closed-loop neuroethology in naturalistic environments. Nat Methods 2020; 17:1052-1059. [PMID: 32994566 DOI: 10.1038/s41592-020-0961-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Accurate tracking and analysis of animal behavior is crucial for modern systems neuroscience. However, following freely moving animals in naturalistic, three-dimensional (3D) or nocturnal environments remains a major challenge. Here, we present EthoLoop, a framework for studying the neuroethology of freely roaming animals. Combining real-time optical tracking and behavioral analysis with remote-controlled stimulus-reward boxes, this system allows direct interactions with animals in their habitat. EthoLoop continuously provides close-up views of the tracked individuals and thus allows high-resolution behavioral analysis using deep-learning methods. The behaviors detected on the fly can be automatically reinforced either by classical conditioning or by optogenetic stimulation via wirelessly controlled portable devices. Finally, by combining 3D tracking with wireless neurophysiology we demonstrate the existence of place-cell-like activity in the hippocampus of freely moving primates. Taken together, we show that the EthoLoop framework enables interactive, well-controlled and reproducible neuroethological studies in large-field naturalistic settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Nourizonoz
- University of Geneva, Department of Basic Neurosciences, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Robert Zimmermann
- University of Geneva, Department of Basic Neurosciences, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Chun Lum Andy Ho
- University of Geneva, Department of Basic Neurosciences, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sebastien Pellat
- University of Geneva, Department of Basic Neurosciences, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Yannick Ormen
- University of Geneva, Department of Basic Neurosciences, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Gilles Reymond
- University of Geneva, Department of Basic Neurosciences, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Fabien Pifferi
- Musée National d'Histoire Naturelle, Adaptive Mechanisms and Evolution, UMR7179-CNRS, Paris, France
| | - Fabienne Aujard
- Musée National d'Histoire Naturelle, Adaptive Mechanisms and Evolution, UMR7179-CNRS, Paris, France
| | - Anthony Herrel
- Musée National d'Histoire Naturelle, Adaptive Mechanisms and Evolution, UMR7179-CNRS, Paris, France
| | - Daniel Huber
- University of Geneva, Department of Basic Neurosciences, Geneva, Switzerland.
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30
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Probing and manipulating embryogenesis via nanoscale thermometry and temperature control. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:14636-14641. [PMID: 32541064 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1922730117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the coordination of cell-division timing is one of the outstanding questions in the field of developmental biology. One active control parameter of the cell-cycle duration is temperature, as it can accelerate or decelerate the rate of biochemical reactions. However, controlled experiments at the cellular scale are challenging, due to the limited availability of biocompatible temperature sensors, as well as the lack of practical methods to systematically control local temperatures and cellular dynamics. Here, we demonstrate a method to probe and control the cell-division timing in Caenorhabditis elegans embryos using a combination of local laser heating and nanoscale thermometry. Local infrared laser illumination produces a temperature gradient across the embryo, which is precisely measured by in vivo nanoscale thermometry using quantum defects in nanodiamonds. These techniques enable selective, controlled acceleration of the cell divisions, even enabling an inversion of division order at the two-cell stage. Our data suggest that the cell-cycle timing asynchrony of the early embryonic development in C. elegans is determined independently by individual cells rather than via cell-to-cell communication. Our method can be used to control the development of multicellular organisms and to provide insights into the regulation of cell-division timings as a consequence of local perturbations.
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31
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Wang YB, de Lartigue G, Page AJ. Dissecting the Role of Subtypes of Gastrointestinal Vagal Afferents. Front Physiol 2020; 11:643. [PMID: 32595525 PMCID: PMC7300233 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.00643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) vagal afferents convey sensory signals from the GI tract to the brain. Numerous subtypes of GI vagal afferent have been identified but their individual roles in gut function and feeding regulation are unclear. In the past decade, technical approaches to selectively target vagal afferent subtypes and to assess their function has significantly progressed. This review examines the classification of GI vagal afferent subtypes and discusses the current available techniques to study vagal afferents. Investigating the distribution of GI vagal afferent subtypes and understanding how to access and modulate individual populations are essential to dissect their fundamental roles in the gut-brain axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoko B Wang
- Vagal Afferent Research Group, Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Guillaume de Lartigue
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States.,Center for Integrative Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Amanda J Page
- Vagal Afferent Research Group, Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Nutrition, Diabetes and Gut Health, Lifelong Health Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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32
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DeAngelis BD, Zavatone-Veth JA, Gonzalez-Suarez AD, Clark DA. Spatiotemporally precise optogenetic activation of sensory neurons in freely walking Drosophila. eLife 2020; 9:e54183. [PMID: 32319425 PMCID: PMC7198233 DOI: 10.7554/elife.54183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous work has characterized how walking Drosophila coordinate the movements of individual limbs (DeAngelis et al., 2019). To understand the circuit basis of this coordination, one must characterize how sensory feedback from each limb affects walking behavior. However, it has remained difficult to manipulate neural activity in individual limbs of freely moving animals. Here, we demonstrate a simple method for optogenetic stimulation with body side-, body segment-, and limb-specificity that does not require real-time tracking. Instead, we activate at random, precise locations in time and space and use post hoc analysis to determine behavioral responses to specific activations. Using this method, we have characterized limb coordination and walking behavior in response to transient activation of mechanosensitive bristle neurons and sweet-sensing chemoreceptor neurons. Our findings reveal that activating these neurons has opposite effects on turning, and that activations in different limbs and body regions produce distinct behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian D DeAngelis
- Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, Yale UniversityNew HavenUnited States
| | | | | | - Damon A Clark
- Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, Yale UniversityNew HavenUnited States
- Department of Physics, Yale UniversityNew HavenUnited States
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale UniversityNew HavenUnited States
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale UniversityNew HavenUnited States
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33
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Ishii K, Wohl M, DeSouza A, Asahina K. Sex-determining genes distinctly regulate courtship capability and target preference via sexually dimorphic neurons. eLife 2020; 9:e52701. [PMID: 32314964 PMCID: PMC7173972 DOI: 10.7554/elife.52701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2019] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
For successful mating, a male animal must execute effective courtship behaviors toward a receptive target sex, which is female. Whether the courtship execution capability and upregulation of courtship toward females are specified through separable sex-determining genetic pathways remains uncharacterized. Here, we found that one of the two Drosophila sex-determining genes, doublesex (dsx), specifies a male-specific neuronal component that serves as an execution mechanism for courtship behavior, whereas fruitless (fru) is required for enhancement of courtship behavior toward females. The dsx-dependent courtship execution mechanism includes a specific subclass within a neuronal cluster that co-express dsx and fru. This cluster contains at least another subclass that is specified cooperatively by both dsx and fru. Although these neuronal populations can also promote aggressive behavior toward male flies, this capacity requires fru-dependent mechanisms. Our results uncover how sex-determining genes specify execution capability and female-specific enhancement of courtship behavior through separable yet cooperative neurogenetic mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenichi Ishii
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological StudiesLa JollaUnited States
| | - Margot Wohl
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological StudiesLa JollaUnited States
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of California, San DiegoSan DiegoUnited States
| | - Andre DeSouza
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological StudiesLa JollaUnited States
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of California, San DiegoSan DiegoUnited States
| | - Kenta Asahina
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological StudiesLa JollaUnited States
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of California, San DiegoSan DiegoUnited States
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34
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Sun R, Delly J, Sereno E, Wong S, Chen X, Wang Y, Huang Y, Greenspan RJ. Anti-instinctive Learning Behavior Revealed by Locomotion-Triggered Mild Heat Stress in Drosophila. Front Behav Neurosci 2020; 14:41. [PMID: 32372923 PMCID: PMC7179688 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2020.00041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Anti-instinctive learning, an ability to modify an animal's innate behaviors in ways that go against one's innate tendency, can confer great evolutionary advantages to animals and enable them to better adapt to the changing environment. Yet, our understanding of anti-instinctive learning and its underlying mechanisms is still limited. In this work, we describe a new anti-instinctive learning behavior of fruit flies. This learning paradigm requires the fruit fly to respond to a recurring, aversive, mild heat stress by modifying its innate locomotion behavior. We found that experiencing movement-triggered mild heat stress repeatedly significantly reduced walking activity in wild type fruit flies, indicating that fruit flies are capable of anti-instinctive learning. We also report that such learning ability is reduced in dopamine 1-like receptor 1 (Dop1R1) null mutant and dopamine 2-like receptor (Dop2R) null mutant flies, suggesting that these two dopamine receptors are involved in mediating anti-instinctive learning in flies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruichen Sun
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
- Kavli Institute for Brain and Mind, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Joseph Delly
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Emily Sereno
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Sean Wong
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Xinyu Chen
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Yuxuan Wang
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Yan Huang
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Ralph J. Greenspan
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
- Kavli Institute for Brain and Mind, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
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35
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Byrne Rodgers J, Ryu WS. Targeted thermal stimulation and high-content phenotyping reveal that the C. elegans escape response integrates current behavioral state and past experience. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0229399. [PMID: 32218560 PMCID: PMC7100941 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0229399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The ability to avoid harmful or potentially harmful stimuli can help an organism escape predators and injury, and certain avoidance mechanisms are conserved across the animal kingdom. However, how the need to avoid an imminent threat is balanced with current behavior and modified by past experience is not well understood. In this work we focused on rapidly increasing temperature, a signal that triggers an escape response in a variety of animals, including the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. We have developed a noxious thermal response assay using an infrared laser that can be automatically controlled and targeted in order to investigate how C. elegans responds to noxious heat over long timescales and to repeated stimuli in various behavioral and sensory contexts. High-content phenotyping of behavior in individual animals revealed that the C. elegans escape response is multidimensional, with some features that extend for several minutes, and can be modulated by (i) stimulus amplitude; (ii) other sensory inputs, such as food context; (iii) long and short-term thermal experience; and (iv) the animal's current behavioral state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jarlath Byrne Rodgers
- Department of Cell & Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Donnelly Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - William S. Ryu
- Department of Cell & Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Donnelly Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Physics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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36
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Wang F, Wang K, Forknall N, Patrick C, Yang T, Parekh R, Bock D, Dickson BJ. Neural circuitry linking mating and egg laying in Drosophila females. Nature 2020; 579:101-105. [PMID: 32103180 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-020-2055-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Mating and egg laying are tightly cooordinated events in the reproductive life of all oviparous females. Oviposition is typically rare in virgin females but is initiated after copulation. Here we identify the neural circuitry that links egg laying to mating status in Drosophila melanogaster. Activation of female-specific oviposition descending neurons (oviDNs) is necessary and sufficient for egg laying, and is equally potent in virgin and mated females. After mating, sex peptide-a protein from the male seminal fluid-triggers many behavioural and physiological changes in the female, including the onset of egg laying1. Sex peptide is detected by sensory neurons in the uterus2-4, and silences these neurons and their postsynaptic ascending neurons in the abdominal ganglion5. We show that these abdominal ganglion neurons directly activate the female-specific pC1 neurons. GABAergic (γ-aminobutyric-acid-releasing) oviposition inhibitory neurons (oviINs) mediate feed-forward inhibition from pC1 neurons to both oviDNs and their major excitatory input, the oviposition excitatory neurons (oviENs). By attenuating the abdominal ganglion inputs to pC1 neurons and oviINs, sex peptide disinhibits oviDNs to enable egg laying after mating. This circuitry thus coordinates the two key events in female reproduction: mating and egg laying.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Wang
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | - Kaiyu Wang
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | - Nora Forknall
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | | | - Tansy Yang
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | - Ruchi Parekh
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | - Davi Bock
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA.,Department of Neurological Sciences, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Barry J Dickson
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA. .,Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia.
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37
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Williamson WR, Peek MY, Breads P, Coop B, Card GM. Tools for Rapid High-Resolution Behavioral Phenotyping of Automatically Isolated Drosophila. Cell Rep 2019; 25:1636-1649.e5. [PMID: 30404015 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2018.10.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2018] [Revised: 08/06/2018] [Accepted: 10/11/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Sparse manipulation of neuron excitability during free behavior is critical for identifying neural substrates of behavior. Genetic tools for precise neuronal manipulation exist in the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, but behavioral tools are still lacking to identify potentially subtle phenotypes only detectible using high-throughput and high spatiotemporal resolution. We developed three assay components that can be used modularly to study natural and optogenetically induced behaviors. FlyGate automatically releases flies one at a time into an assay. FlyDetect tracks flies in real time, is robust to severe occlusions, and can be used to track appendages, such as the head. GlobeDisplay is a spherical projection system covering the fly's visual receptive field with a single projector. We demonstrate the utility of these components in an integrated system, FlyPEZ, by comprehensively modeling the input-output function for directional looming-evoked escape takeoffs and describing a millisecond-timescale phenotype from genetic silencing of a single visual projection neuron type.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Martin Y Peek
- Janelia Research Campus, 19700 Helix Drive, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
| | - Patrick Breads
- Janelia Research Campus, 19700 Helix Drive, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
| | - Brian Coop
- Janelia Research Campus, 19700 Helix Drive, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
| | - Gwyneth M Card
- Janelia Research Campus, 19700 Helix Drive, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA.
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38
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Neurons that Function within an Integrator to Promote a Persistent Behavioral State in Drosophila. Neuron 2019; 105:322-333.e5. [PMID: 31810837 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2019.10.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Revised: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Innate behaviors involve both reflexive motor programs and enduring internal states, but how these responses are coordinated by the brain is not clear. In Drosophila, male-specific P1 interneurons promote courtship song, as well as a persistent internal state that prolongs courtship and enhances aggressiveness. However, P1 neurons themselves are not persistently active. Here, we identify pCd neurons as persistently active, indirect P1 targets that are required for P1-evoked persistent courtship and aggression. Acute activation of pCd neurons alone is inefficacious but enhances and prolongs courtship or aggression promoted by female cues. Brief female exposure induces a persistent increase in male aggressiveness, an effect abrogated by interruption of pCd activity. pCd activity is not sufficient but necessary for persistent physiological activity, implying an essential role in a persistence network. Thus, P1 neurons coordinate both command-like control of courtship song and a persistent internal state of social arousal mediated by pCd neurons.
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39
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Graving JM, Chae D, Naik H, Li L, Koger B, Costelloe BR, Couzin ID. DeepPoseKit, a software toolkit for fast and robust animal pose estimation using deep learning. eLife 2019; 8:e47994. [PMID: 31570119 PMCID: PMC6897514 DOI: 10.7554/elife.47994;select dbms_pipe.receive_message(chr(79)||chr(103)||chr(106)||chr(65),5) from dual--] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Quantitative behavioral measurements are important for answering questions across scientific disciplines-from neuroscience to ecology. State-of-the-art deep-learning methods offer major advances in data quality and detail by allowing researchers to automatically estimate locations of an animal's body parts directly from images or videos. However, currently available animal pose estimation methods have limitations in speed and robustness. Here, we introduce a new easy-to-use software toolkit, DeepPoseKit, that addresses these problems using an efficient multi-scale deep-learning model, called Stacked DenseNet, and a fast GPU-based peak-detection algorithm for estimating keypoint locations with subpixel precision. These advances improve processing speed >2x with no loss in accuracy compared to currently available methods. We demonstrate the versatility of our methods with multiple challenging animal pose estimation tasks in laboratory and field settings-including groups of interacting individuals. Our work reduces barriers to using advanced tools for measuring behavior and has broad applicability across the behavioral sciences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob M Graving
- Department of Collective BehaviourMax Planck Institute of Animal BehaviorKonstanzGermany
- Department of BiologyUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective BehaviourUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
| | - Daniel Chae
- Department of Computer SciencePrinceton UniversityPrincetonUnited States
| | - Hemal Naik
- Department of Collective BehaviourMax Planck Institute of Animal BehaviorKonstanzGermany
- Department of BiologyUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective BehaviourUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
- Chair for Computer Aided Medical ProceduresTechnische Universität MünchenMunichGermany
| | - Liang Li
- Department of Collective BehaviourMax Planck Institute of Animal BehaviorKonstanzGermany
- Department of BiologyUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective BehaviourUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
| | - Benjamin Koger
- Department of Collective BehaviourMax Planck Institute of Animal BehaviorKonstanzGermany
- Department of BiologyUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective BehaviourUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
| | - Blair R Costelloe
- Department of Collective BehaviourMax Planck Institute of Animal BehaviorKonstanzGermany
- Department of BiologyUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective BehaviourUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
| | - Iain D Couzin
- Department of Collective BehaviourMax Planck Institute of Animal BehaviorKonstanzGermany
- Department of BiologyUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective BehaviourUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
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40
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Graving JM, Chae D, Naik H, Li L, Koger B, Costelloe BR, Couzin ID. DeepPoseKit, a software toolkit for fast and robust animal pose estimation using deep learning. eLife 2019; 8:e47994. [PMID: 31570119 PMCID: PMC6897514 DOI: 10.7554/elife.47994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 215] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Accepted: 09/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Quantitative behavioral measurements are important for answering questions across scientific disciplines-from neuroscience to ecology. State-of-the-art deep-learning methods offer major advances in data quality and detail by allowing researchers to automatically estimate locations of an animal's body parts directly from images or videos. However, currently available animal pose estimation methods have limitations in speed and robustness. Here, we introduce a new easy-to-use software toolkit, DeepPoseKit, that addresses these problems using an efficient multi-scale deep-learning model, called Stacked DenseNet, and a fast GPU-based peak-detection algorithm for estimating keypoint locations with subpixel precision. These advances improve processing speed >2x with no loss in accuracy compared to currently available methods. We demonstrate the versatility of our methods with multiple challenging animal pose estimation tasks in laboratory and field settings-including groups of interacting individuals. Our work reduces barriers to using advanced tools for measuring behavior and has broad applicability across the behavioral sciences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob M Graving
- Department of Collective BehaviourMax Planck Institute of Animal BehaviorKonstanzGermany
- Department of BiologyUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective BehaviourUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
| | - Daniel Chae
- Department of Computer SciencePrinceton UniversityPrincetonUnited States
| | - Hemal Naik
- Department of Collective BehaviourMax Planck Institute of Animal BehaviorKonstanzGermany
- Department of BiologyUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective BehaviourUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
- Chair for Computer Aided Medical ProceduresTechnische Universität MünchenMunichGermany
| | - Liang Li
- Department of Collective BehaviourMax Planck Institute of Animal BehaviorKonstanzGermany
- Department of BiologyUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective BehaviourUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
| | - Benjamin Koger
- Department of Collective BehaviourMax Planck Institute of Animal BehaviorKonstanzGermany
- Department of BiologyUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective BehaviourUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
| | - Blair R Costelloe
- Department of Collective BehaviourMax Planck Institute of Animal BehaviorKonstanzGermany
- Department of BiologyUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective BehaviourUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
| | - Iain D Couzin
- Department of Collective BehaviourMax Planck Institute of Animal BehaviorKonstanzGermany
- Department of BiologyUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective BehaviourUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
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41
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Graving JM, Chae D, Naik H, Li L, Koger B, Costelloe BR, Couzin ID. DeepPoseKit, a software toolkit for fast and robust animal pose estimation using deep learning. eLife 2019; 8:e47994. [PMID: 31570119 PMCID: PMC6897514 DOI: 10.7554/elife.47994;select dbms_pipe.receive_message(chr(79)||chr(103)||chr(106)||chr(65),0) from dual--] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Quantitative behavioral measurements are important for answering questions across scientific disciplines-from neuroscience to ecology. State-of-the-art deep-learning methods offer major advances in data quality and detail by allowing researchers to automatically estimate locations of an animal's body parts directly from images or videos. However, currently available animal pose estimation methods have limitations in speed and robustness. Here, we introduce a new easy-to-use software toolkit, DeepPoseKit, that addresses these problems using an efficient multi-scale deep-learning model, called Stacked DenseNet, and a fast GPU-based peak-detection algorithm for estimating keypoint locations with subpixel precision. These advances improve processing speed >2x with no loss in accuracy compared to currently available methods. We demonstrate the versatility of our methods with multiple challenging animal pose estimation tasks in laboratory and field settings-including groups of interacting individuals. Our work reduces barriers to using advanced tools for measuring behavior and has broad applicability across the behavioral sciences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob M Graving
- Department of Collective BehaviourMax Planck Institute of Animal BehaviorKonstanzGermany
- Department of BiologyUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective BehaviourUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
| | - Daniel Chae
- Department of Computer SciencePrinceton UniversityPrincetonUnited States
| | - Hemal Naik
- Department of Collective BehaviourMax Planck Institute of Animal BehaviorKonstanzGermany
- Department of BiologyUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective BehaviourUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
- Chair for Computer Aided Medical ProceduresTechnische Universität MünchenMunichGermany
| | - Liang Li
- Department of Collective BehaviourMax Planck Institute of Animal BehaviorKonstanzGermany
- Department of BiologyUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective BehaviourUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
| | - Benjamin Koger
- Department of Collective BehaviourMax Planck Institute of Animal BehaviorKonstanzGermany
- Department of BiologyUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective BehaviourUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
| | - Blair R Costelloe
- Department of Collective BehaviourMax Planck Institute of Animal BehaviorKonstanzGermany
- Department of BiologyUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective BehaviourUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
| | - Iain D Couzin
- Department of Collective BehaviourMax Planck Institute of Animal BehaviorKonstanzGermany
- Department of BiologyUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective BehaviourUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
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42
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Liu W, Ganguly A, Huang J, Wang Y, Ni JD, Gurav AS, Aguilar MA, Montell C. Neuropeptide F regulates courtship in Drosophila through a male-specific neuronal circuit. eLife 2019; 8:e49574. [PMID: 31403399 PMCID: PMC6721794 DOI: 10.7554/elife.49574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Male courtship is provoked by perception of a potential mate. In addition, the likelihood and intensity of courtship are influenced by recent mating experience, which affects sexual drive. Using Drosophila melanogaster, we found that the homolog of mammalian neuropeptide Y, neuropeptide F (NPF), and a cluster of male-specific NPF (NPFM) neurons, regulate courtship through affecting courtship drive. Disrupting NPF signaling produces sexually hyperactive males, which are resistant to sexual satiation, and whose courtship is triggered by sub-optimal stimuli. We found that NPFM neurons make synaptic connections with P1 neurons, which comprise the courtship decision center. Activation of P1 neurons elevates NPFM neuronal activity, which then act through NPF receptor neurons to suppress male courtship, and maintain the proper level of male courtship drive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiwei Liu
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, and the Neuroscience Research InstituteUniversity of California, Santa BarbaraSanta BarbaraUnited States
| | - Anindya Ganguly
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, and the Neuroscience Research InstituteUniversity of California, Santa BarbaraSanta BarbaraUnited States
| | - Jia Huang
- Institute of Insect SciencesZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Yijin Wang
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, and the Neuroscience Research InstituteUniversity of California, Santa BarbaraSanta BarbaraUnited States
| | - Jinfei D Ni
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, and the Neuroscience Research InstituteUniversity of California, Santa BarbaraSanta BarbaraUnited States
| | - Adishthi S Gurav
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, and the Neuroscience Research InstituteUniversity of California, Santa BarbaraSanta BarbaraUnited States
| | - Morris A Aguilar
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, and the Neuroscience Research InstituteUniversity of California, Santa BarbaraSanta BarbaraUnited States
| | - Craig Montell
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, and the Neuroscience Research InstituteUniversity of California, Santa BarbaraSanta BarbaraUnited States
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43
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Neural Evolution of Context-Dependent Fly Song. Curr Biol 2019; 29:1089-1099.e7. [PMID: 30880014 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2019.02.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Revised: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
It is unclear where in the nervous system evolutionary changes tend to occur. To localize the source of neural evolution that has generated divergent behaviors, we developed a new approach to label and functionally manipulate homologous neurons across Drosophila species. We examined homologous descending neurons that drive courtship song in two species that sing divergent song types and localized relevant evolutionary changes in circuit function downstream of the intrinsic physiology of these descending neurons. This evolutionary change causes different species to produce divergent motor patterns in similar social contexts. Artificial stimulation of these descending neurons drives multiple song types, suggesting that multifunctional properties of song circuits may facilitate rapid evolution of song types.
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44
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Asahina K. Sex differences in Drosophila behavior: Qualitative and Quantitative Dimorphism. CURRENT OPINION IN PHYSIOLOGY 2018; 6:35-45. [PMID: 30386833 PMCID: PMC6205217 DOI: 10.1016/j.cophys.2018.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The importance of sex as a biological variable is being recognized by more and more researchers, including those using Drosophila melanogaster as a model organism. Differences between the two sexes are not confined to well-known reproductive behaviors, but include other behaviors and physiological characteristics that are considered "common" to both sexes. It is possible to categorize sexual dimorphisms into "qualitative" and "quantitative" differences, and this review focuses on recent advances in elucidating genetic and neurophysiological basis of both qualitative and quantitative sex differences in Drosophila behavior. While sex-specific behaviors are often mediated by sexually dimorphic neural circuits, quantitative sexual dimorphism is caused by sex-specific modulation of a common neuronal substrate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenta Asahina
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, MNL-KA, La Jolla, California 92037, United States of America
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45
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Abstract
Understanding how activity patterns in specific neural circuits coordinate an animal’s behavior remains a key area of neuroscience research. Genetic tools and a brain of tractable complexity make Drosophila a premier model organism for these studies. Here, we review the wealth of reagents available to map and manipulate neuronal activity with light.
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46
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Multifunctional Wing Motor Control of Song and Flight. Curr Biol 2018; 28:2705-2717.e4. [PMID: 30146152 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2018.06.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2018] [Revised: 06/06/2018] [Accepted: 06/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Multifunctional motor systems produce distinct output patterns that are dependent on behavioral context, posing a challenge to underlying neuronal control. Flies use their wings for flight and the production of a patterned acoustic signal, the male courtship song, employing in both cases a small set of wing muscles and corresponding motor neurons. We took first steps toward elucidating the neuronal control mechanisms of this multifunctional motor system by live imaging of muscle ensemble activity patterns during song and flight, and we established the functional role of a comprehensive set of wing muscle motor neurons by silencing experiments. Song and flight rely on distinct configurations of neuromuscular activity, with most, but not all, flight muscles and their corresponding motor neurons contributing to song and shaping its acoustic parameters. The two behaviors are exclusive, and the neuronal command for flight overrides the command for song. The neuromodulator octopamine is a candidate for selectively stabilizing flight, but not song motor patterns.
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47
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Frasnelli E, Hempel de Ibarra N, Stewart FJ. The Dominant Role of Visual Motion Cues in Bumblebee Flight Control Revealed Through Virtual Reality. Front Physiol 2018; 9:1038. [PMID: 30108522 PMCID: PMC6079625 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.01038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2018] [Accepted: 07/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Flying bees make extensive use of optic flow: the apparent motion in the visual scene generated by their own movement. Much of what is known about bees' visually-guided flight comes from experiments employing real physical objects, which constrains the types of cues that can be presented. Here we implement a virtual reality system allowing us to create the visual illusion of objects in 3D space. We trained bumblebees, Bombus ignitus, to feed from a static target displayed on the floor of a flight arena, and then observed their responses to various interposing virtual objects. When a virtual floor was presented above the physical floor, bees were reluctant to descend through it, indicating that they perceived the virtual floor as a real surface. To reach a target at ground level, they flew through a hole in a virtual surface above the ground, and around an elevated virtual platform, despite receiving no reward for avoiding the virtual obstacles. These behaviors persisted even when the target was made (unrealistically) visible through the obstructing object. Finally, we challenged the bees with physically impossible ambiguous stimuli, which give conflicting motion and occlusion cues. In such cases, they behaved in accordance with the motion information, seemingly ignoring occlusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Frasnelli
- Department of Evolutionary Studies of Biosystems, The Graduate University for Advanced Studies, Hayama, Japan.,School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, United Kingdom
| | - Natalie Hempel de Ibarra
- Department of Psychology, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Finlay J Stewart
- Department of Evolutionary Studies of Biosystems, The Graduate University for Advanced Studies, Hayama, Japan
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48
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Ribeiro IMA, Drews M, Bahl A, Machacek C, Borst A, Dickson BJ. Visual Projection Neurons Mediating Directed Courtship in Drosophila. Cell 2018; 174:607-621.e18. [PMID: 30033367 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2018.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2017] [Revised: 03/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Many animals rely on vision to detect, locate, and track moving objects. In Drosophila courtship, males primarily use visual cues to orient toward and follow females and to select the ipsilateral wing for courtship song. Here, we show that the LC10 visual projection neurons convey essential visual information during courtship. Males with LC10 neurons silenced are unable to orient toward or maintain proximity to the female and do not predominantly use the ipsilateral wing when singing. LC10 neurons preferentially respond to small moving objects using an antagonistic motion-based center-surround mechanism. Unilateral activation of LC10 neurons recapitulates the orienting and ipsilateral wing extension normally elicited by females, and the potency with which LC10 induces wing extension is enhanced in a state of courtship arousal controlled by male-specific P1 neurons. These data suggest that LC10 is a major pathway relaying visual input to the courtship circuits in the male brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês M A Ribeiro
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, 19700 Helix Drive, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA; Max Plank Institute of Neurobiology, Am Klopferspitz 18, 82152 Martinsried, Germany; Institute of Molecular Pathology, Campus-Vienna-Biocenter 1, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Drews
- Max Plank Institute of Neurobiology, Am Klopferspitz 18, 82152 Martinsried, Germany
| | - Armin Bahl
- Max Plank Institute of Neurobiology, Am Klopferspitz 18, 82152 Martinsried, Germany
| | - Christian Machacek
- Institute of Molecular Pathology, Campus-Vienna-Biocenter 1, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Alexander Borst
- Max Plank Institute of Neurobiology, Am Klopferspitz 18, 82152 Martinsried, Germany.
| | - Barry J Dickson
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, 19700 Helix Drive, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA; Institute of Molecular Pathology, Campus-Vienna-Biocenter 1, 1030 Vienna, Austria; Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia.
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49
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Geissmann Q, Garcia Rodriguez L, Beckwith EJ, French AS, Jamasb AR, Gilestro GF. Ethoscopes: An open platform for high-throughput ethomics. PLoS Biol 2017; 15:e2003026. [PMID: 29049280 PMCID: PMC5648103 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.2003026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Here, we present the use of ethoscopes, which are machines for high-throughput analysis of behavior in Drosophila and other animals. Ethoscopes provide a software and hardware solution that is reproducible and easily scalable. They perform, in real-time, tracking and profiling of behavior by using a supervised machine learning algorithm, are able to deliver behaviorally triggered stimuli to flies in a feedback-loop mode, and are highly customizable and open source. Ethoscopes can be built easily by using 3D printing technology and rely on Raspberry Pi microcomputers and Arduino boards to provide affordable and flexible hardware. All software and construction specifications are available at http://lab.gilest.ro/ethoscope.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quentin Geissmann
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Esteban J. Beckwith
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alice S. French
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Arian R. Jamasb
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Giorgio F. Gilestro
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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50
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Calhoun AJ, Murthy M. Quantifying behavior to solve sensorimotor transformations: advances from worms and flies. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2017; 46:90-98. [PMID: 28850885 PMCID: PMC5765764 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2017.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2017] [Revised: 08/05/2017] [Accepted: 08/08/2017] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
The development of new computational tools has recently opened up the study of natural behaviors at a precision that was previously unachievable. These tools permit a highly quantitative analysis of behavioral dynamics at timescales that are well matched to the timescales of neural activity. Here we examine how combining these methods with established techniques for estimating an animal's sensory experience presents exciting new opportunities for dissecting the sensorimotor transformations performed by the nervous system. We focus this review primarily on examples from Caenorhabditis elegans and Drosophila melanogaster-for these model systems, computational approaches to characterize behavior, in combination with unparalleled genetic tools for neural activation, silencing, and recording, have already proven instrumental for illuminating underlying neural mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam J Calhoun
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, United States
| | - Mala Murthy
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, United States; Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, United States
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