A neural circuit for context-dependent multimodal signaling in Drosophila.

ABSTRACT: Many animals produce multimodal displays that combine acoustic, visual, or vibratory signals, yet the neural mechanisms coordinating these behaviors remain unclear. Using Drosophila courtship as a model, we reveal how a single neural circuit integrates sensory cues and motivational state to orchestrate multimodal signaling. Male flies produce both air-borne song and substrate-borne vibrations during courtship, but in distinct, largely non-overlapping contexts. We demonstrate that the same brain neurons that drive song also control vibrations through separate pre-motor pathways, with cell-type specific dynamics. This shared circuit coordinates multimodal displays with locomotion, ensuring vibrations are produced only when they can effectively reach the female. The circuit employs shared mot

SUBMITTER: Steinfath E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12559195 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature