Hyperpolarization by activation of halorhodopsin results in enhanced synaptic transmission: Neuromuscular junction and CNS circuit

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0200107
• Publication Date: 2018-07-03T18:28:20Z
• Authors: Matthew Mattingly; Kristin Weineck; Jennifer Costa; Robin L. Cooper
• Keywords: Hyperpolarization; Halorhodopsin; Biological neural network

Optogenetics offers a unique method to regulate the activity of select neural circuits. However, electrophysiological consequences targeted optogenetic manipulation upon entire circuit remain poorly understood. Analysis sensory-CNS-motor in Drosophila larvae expressing eHpHR and ChR2-XXL revealed unexpected patterns excitability. Optical stimulation motor neurons express eNpHR resulted inhibition followed by excitation body wall contraction with repetitive intact larvae. In situ preparations direct measures showed an increased responsiveness excitatory synaptic induced sensory within functional circuit. To ensure proper function they were expressed muscle measurements obtained. Under hyperpolarization remained excitable amplitude postsynaptic potentials. Theoretical models explain observations are presented. This study aids increasing understanding varied possible influences light activated proteins