Synaptic Targets of Circadian Clock Neurons Influence Core Clock Parameters.

ABSTRACT: Neuronal connectivity in the circadian clock network is essential for robust endogenous timekeeping. In the Drosophila circadian clock network, four pairs of small ventral lateral neurons (sLN_vs) serve as critical pacemakers. Peptidergic communication via sLN_v release of the key output neuropeptide Pigment Dispersing Factor (PDF) has been well characterized. In contrast, little is known about the role of the synaptic connections that sLN_vs form with downstream neurons. Connectomic analyses revealed that the sLN_vs form strong synaptic connections with a group of previously uncharacterized neurons, SLP316. Here, we show that silencing synaptic output in the SLP316 neurons via tetanus toxin (TNT) expression shortens the free-running pe

SUBMITTER: Scholz-Carlson E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11838453 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature