A novel post-developmental role of the Hox genes underlies normal adult behavior.

ABSTRACT: The molecular mechanisms underlying the stability of mature neurons and neural circuits are poorly understood. Here we explore this problem and discover that the Hox genes are a component of the genetic program that maintains normal neural function in adult Drosophila. We show that post-developmental downregulation of the Hox gene Ultrabithorax (Ubx) in adult neurons leads to substantial anomalies in flight. Mapping the cellular basis of these effects reveals that Ubx is required within a subset of dopaminergic neurons, and cell circuitry analyses in combination with optogenetics allow us to link these dopaminergic neurons to flight control. Functional imaging experiments show that Ubx is necessary for normal dopaminergic activity, and neuro

SUBMITTER: Raouf Issa A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9894213 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature