Cytosolic calcium transients: spatial localization and role in Drosophila photoreceptor cell function

Drosophila phototransduction is a phosphoinositide-mediated and Ca(2+)-regulated signaling cascade ideal for the dissection of feedback regulatory mechanisms. To study the roles of intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) in this process, we developed novel techniques for the measurement of [Ca2+]i in intact photoreceptors. We genetically engineered flies that express a UV-specific rhodopsin in place of the normal rhodopsin, so that long wavelength light can be used to image [Ca2+]i changes while minimally exciting the photoreceptor cells. We show that activation with UV generates [Ca2+]i increases that are spatially localized to the rhabdomeres and that are entirely dependent on the influx of extracellular Ca2+. Application of intracellular Ca2+ chelators of varying affinities demonstrates that the Ca2+ influx initially generates a large-amplitude transient that is crucial for negative regulation. Internal Ca2+ stores were revealed by discharging them with thapsigargin. But, in contrast to proposals that IP3-sensitive stores mediate phototransduction, thapsigargin does not mimic or acutely interfere with photoexcitation. Finally, we identify a photoreceptor-specific PKC as essential for normal kinetics of [Ca2+]i recovery.