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Octopamine neuron dependent aggression requires dVGLUT from dual-transmitting neurons.

ABSTRACT: Neuromodulators such as monoamines are often expressed in neurons that also release at least one fast-acting neurotransmitter. The release of a combination of transmitters provides both "classical" and "modulatory" signals that could produce diverse and/or complementary effects in associated circuits. Here, we establish that the majority of Drosophila octopamine (OA) neurons are also glutamatergic and identify the individual contributions of each neurotransmitter on sex-specific behaviors. Males without OA display low levels of aggression and high levels of inter-male courtship. Males deficient for dVGLUT solely in OA-glutamate neurons (OGNs) also exhibit a reduction in aggression, but without a concurrent increase in inter-male courtship. Within OGNs, a portion of VMAT and dVGLUT puncta differ in localization suggesting spatial differences in OA signaling. Our findings establish a previously undetermined role for dVGLUT in OA neurons and suggests that glutamate uncouples aggression from OA-dependent courtship-related behavior. These results indicate that dual neurotransmission can increase the efficacy of individual neurotransmitters while maintaining unique functions within a multi-functional social behavior neuronal network.

SUBMITTER: Sherer LM

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7059954 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature

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Octopamine neuron dependent aggression requires dVGLUT from dual-transmitting neurons.

Sherer Lewis M LM Catudio Garrett Elizabeth E Morgan Hannah R HR Brewer Edmond D ED Sirrs Lucy A LA Shearin Harold K HK Williams Jessica L JL McCabe Brian D BD Stowers R Steven RS Certel Sarah J SJ

PLoS genetics 20200225 2

Neuromodulators such as monoamines are often expressed in neurons that also release at least one fast-acting neurotransmitter. The release of a combination of transmitters provides both "classical" and "modulatory" signals that could produce diverse and/or complementary effects in associated circuits. Here, we establish that the majority of Drosophila octopamine (OA) neurons are also glutamatergic and identify the individual contributions of each neurotransmitter on sex-specific behaviors. Males ...[more]

PMID: 32097408

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Octopamine neuron dependent aggression requires dVGLUT from dual-transmitting neurons.

Publications

Octopamine neuron dependent aggression requires dVGLUT from dual-transmitting neurons.

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