Exploring How the Nervous System Produces Movement Sequences

Explore the intricate mechanisms behind movement sequences in the nervous system through this 48-minute lecture by Andrew Seeds from the Institute for Neurobiology at the University of Puerto Rico. Delve into the fascinating world of grooming behaviors in dusty flies, examining neural activation patterns and the concept of hierarchical suppression. Investigate the sensory neurons responsible for specific grooming movements, with a focus on mechanosensory systems in Drosophila. Uncover the role of Johnston's Organ neurons in antennal grooming and learn about the reconstruction of neural circuits using electron microscopy. Analyze the organization of head grooming circuits and explore hypotheses regarding neurons involved in grooming behaviors. Gain valuable insights into the complex interplay between sensory input, neural circuitry, and motor output in the production of coordinated movement sequences.

Syllabus

Intro
Grooming movements performed by a dusty fly
Neural activation screen for grooming specific neurons
Hypothesis: hierarchical suppression drives
Hierarchical suppression drives grooming
Model of hierarchical suppression
Managing priorities and evolution
What are the sensory neurons that elicit specific grooming movements?
Mechanosensory systems in Drosophila
How do the sensory neurons elicit specific grooming movements?
A subset of Johnston's Organ (JO) neurons elicits antennal grooming
JO neurons do not directly activate the antennal grooming pattern generator
Reconstructing neural circuits in an EM volume
Partially EM reconstructed antennal grooming circuit
Revised antennal grooming command circuit
Neurons that elicit different head grooming movements
Mapping the projections of head bristle mechanosensory neurons
Organization of head grooming circuits
Hypothesis: neurons in the grooming