Astrocytes close a motor circuit critical period.

ABSTRACT: Critical periods-brief intervals during which neural circuits can be modified by activity-are necessary for proper neural circuit assembly. Extended critical periods are associated with neurodevelopmental disorders; however, the mechanisms that ensure timely critical period closure remain poorly understood^1,2. Here we define a critical period in a developing Drosophila motor circuit and identify astrocytes as essential for proper critical period termination. During the critical period, changes in activity regulate dendrite length, complexity and connectivity of motor neurons. Astrocytes invaded the neuropil just before critical period closure³, and astrocyte ablation prolonged the critical period. Finally, we used a genetic screen to identify astrocyte-motor neuron si

SUBMITTER: Ackerman SD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9901311 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature