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MicroRNA-encoded behavior in Drosophila

journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-08, 23:59 authored by Joao Picao-Osorio, Jamie Johnston, Matthias Landgraf, Jimena BerniJimena Berni, Claudio AlonsoClaudio Alonso
The relationship between microRNA (miRNA) regulation and the specification of behavior is only beginning to be explored. We found that mutation of a single miRNA locus (miR-iab4/iab8) in Drosophila larvae affects the animal’s capacity to correct its orientation if turned upside down (self-righting). One of the miRNA targets involved in this behavior is the Hox gene Ultrabithorax, whose derepression in two metameric neurons leads to self-righting defects. In vivo neural activity analysis reveals that these neurons, the self-righting node (SRN), have different activity patterns in wild type and miRNA mutants, whereas thermogenetic manipulation of SRN activity results in changes in self-righting behavior. Our work thus reveals a miRNA-encoded behavior and suggests that other miRNAs might also be involved in behavioral control in Drosophila and other species.

Funding

The molecular regulation of Hox genes during animal development; G0952; WELLCOME TRUST; 098410/Z/12/Z

History

Publication status

  • Published

File Version

  • Published version

Journal

Science

ISSN

0036-8075

Publisher

American Association for the Advancement of Science

Issue

6262

Volume

350

Page range

815-820

Department affiliated with

  • Neuroscience Publications

Full text available

  • No

Peer reviewed?

  • Yes

Legacy Posted Date

2016-01-15

First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date

2016-01-15

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