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Neuroendocrine modulation sustains the C. elegans forward motor state
Maria A Lim1, Jyothsna Chitturi1,2, Valeriya Laskova1,3
1Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Canada.
Elife
|November 19, 2016
Summary
Researchers identified a neuroendocrine cell, RID, that sustains forward movement in C. elegans. This neuron uses neuropeptides like FLP-14 to control motor circuit dynamics, impacting locomotion.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Molecular Biology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Neuromodulators are crucial for regulating neural circuit dynamics.
- Understanding specific neuronal roles in behavior requires integrated multi-modal approaches.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discover and characterize a novel neuron modulating C. elegans motor circuit dynamics.
- To elucidate the molecular and functional role of this neuron in locomotion.
Main Methods:
- Utilized electron microscopy, genetics, transcriptome profiling, calcium imaging, and optogenetics.
- Investigated the function of the Six/SO-family homeobox transcription factor UNC-39.
- Analyzed the neuropeptide FLP-14 and its role in RID neuron function.
Main Results:
- Identified a neuroendocrine neuron (RID) expressing FMRF-amide-related peptide FLP-14.
- RID neuron activity correlates with forward movement; its ablation impairs locomotion sustainability.
- Optogenetic activation of RID prolongs forward movement, dependent on FLP-14.
Conclusions:
- The neuroendocrine cell RID plays a key role in sustaining forward movement in C. elegans.
- Neuropeptide FLP-14 is involved in RID-mediated control of motor circuit dynamics and behavior.
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