Modulation of Drosophila male behavioral choice

• DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0700328104
• Publication Date: 2007-03-06T01:44:34Z
• Authors: Sarah J. Certel; Mary Grace Savella; Dana C. F. Schlegel; Edward A. Kravitz
• Keywords: Suboesophageal ganglion; Social Behavior; Courtship display; Sensory cue

The reproductive and defensive behaviors that are initiated in response to specific sensory cues can provide insight into how choices made between different social behaviors. We manipulated both the activity sex of a subset neurons found significant changes male behavior. Results from aggression assays indicate neuromodulator octopamine (OCT) is necessary for Drosophila males coordinate cue information presented by second respond with appropriate behavior: rather than courtship. In competitive courtship assays, no OCT or low levels do not adapt changing court females. identified small suboesophageal ganglion region adult brain coexpress forms neural determination factor, Fruitless (Fru(M)). A single Fru(M)-positive neuron sends extensive bilateral arborizations ganglion, lateral accessory lobe, possibly posterior antennal suggesting mechanism integrating multiple modalities. Furthermore, eliminating expression Fru(M) transformer OCT/tyramine versus These results complex coordinated nervous system suggest role neuromodulators functioning male-specific circuitry relating behavioral choice.