Istinct Neural Circuits Reflect Sex, Sexual Maturity, Nd Reproductive Status in Response to Stress in Rosophila Melanogaster

bstract—Studies in mammalian systems have shown rray of changes in transmitter signaling in diverse b egions in response to stress, which differ depending on ge and genetic makeup of the animal, as well as the t tress. Here, we exploit the genetic tractability of the fru rosophila melanogaster, a comparatively simple but use odel in which to elucidate conserved components of st esponse pathways. We show that structures within ushroom bodies and central complex, two distinct anat cal regions within the Drosophila brain, modulate behaviora esponses to two different environmental stressors. Mod ation of behavioral output after exposure to these stres as dependent on the sex, sexual maturity, and reproduc tatus of the animal. These parameters also affected whe mutant Drosophila strain carrying specific defects with he mushroom bodies and/or central complex modified esponse to stress relative to wild-type flies. Our res uggest that for each population, unique subsets of neu re recruited into the stress response circuitry and diffe ially affect locomotor behavior and cardiac function. Th ata also provide evidence for neural plasticity in the nsect brain. © 2008 IBRO. Published by Elsevier Ltd ights reserved.