Nitric oxide mediates activity-dependent change to synaptic excitation during a critical period in Drosophila.

ABSTRACT: The emergence of coordinated network function during nervous system development is often associated with critical periods. These phases are sensitive to activity perturbations during, but not outside, of the critical period, that can lead to permanently altered network function for reasons that are not well understood. In particular, the mechanisms that transduce neuronal activity to regulating changes in neuronal physiology or structure are not known. Here, we take advantage of a recently identified invertebrate model for studying critical periods, the Drosophila larval locomotor system. Manipulation of neuronal activity during this critical period is sufficient to increase synaptic excitation and to permanently leave the locomotor network prone to induced seizures. Using genetics and pha

SUBMITTER: Giachello CNG 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8514485 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature