Fernandez-Hernandez, I. | Search bioRxiv

bioRxiv2020

Olfactory neuron turnover in adult Drosophila

Sustained neurogenesis occurs in the olfactory epithelium of several species, including humans, to support olfactory function throughout life. We recently developed a modified lineage tracing method to identify adult neurogenesis in Drosophila. By applying this technique, here we report on the continuous generation of Olfactory Sensory Neurons (OSN) in the antennae of adult Drosophila. New neurons develop sensory dendrites and project axons targeting diverse glomeruli of the antennal lobes in the brain. Furthermore, we identified sustained apoptosis of OSN in the antennae of adult flies, revealing unexpected turnover in the adult olfactory system. Our results substantiate Drosophila as a compelling platform to expedite research about mechanisms and compounds promoting neuronal regeneration, circuit remodeling and its contribution to behavior in the adult.

neuroscience↗

bioRxiv2019

Generation of mechanosensory neurons in adult Drosophila

Auditory and vestibular mechanosensory hair cells do not regenerate following injury or aging in the adult mammalian inner ear, inducing irreversible hearing loss and balance disorders for millions of people. Research on model systems showing replacement of mechanosensory cells can provide mechanistic insights into developing new regenerative therapies. Here, we developed lineage tracing systems to reveal, for the first time, the generation of mechanosensory neurons in the Johnstons Organ (JO) of intact adult Drosophila, which are the functional counterparts to hair cells in vertebrates. New JO neurons develop cilia, express an essential mechano-transducer gene and target central brain circuitry. Furthermore, we identified self-replication of JO neurons as an unexpected mechanism of neuronal plasticity, which is enhanced upon treatment with experimental and ototoxic compounds. Our findings introduce a new platform to expedite research about mechanisms and compounds mediating mechanosensory cell regeneration, with implications for hearing and balance restoration in humans. SUMMARY STATEMENTUsing refined lineage tracing and live imaging, we identified self-renewal of mechanosensory neurons in adult Drosophila, the functional counterparts to vertebrate hair cells, and their enhanced regeneration through pharmacological administration.

developmental biology↗