Insect Optic Glomeruli-Exploration of a Universal Circuit for Sensorimotor Processing
Abstract
We have successfully achieved the first recordings from any laboratory of the small palisade output neurons from the lobula of Drosophila melanogaster, using in vivo targeting of green fluorescent protein expressing neurons. These studies reveal that microneurons with short axons conduct exclusively by graded potentials and that their responses are most likely summed with glomeruli to provide ambiguous detection of defined stimuli. Interpretations of these complex electrotonic responses has lead to novel methods for frequency analysis and data extraction. Further advances have been accomplished on modeling optic glomeruli, using data sets from anatomy and electrophysiology. Pilot studies across insects and reptantian crustaceans reveal optic glomeruli as ubiquitous circuits in the brains of arthropods. Organization clearly reflects visual ecologies and hence behavioral demands. Studies of trace nervous systems in deep time supports theories proposing that glomerular circuits are ubiquitous, ancient, and have evolved to support information extractions from probably all sensory modalities.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 03, 2010
- Accession Number
- ADA518599
Entities
People
- Nicholas Strausfeld
Organizations
- University of Arizona