Applications

Inquiry

Systems Neuroscience Research Using Drosophila

Drosophila is an important model organism in neuroscience, well suited to study the neural circuitry underlying behavior. CD BioSciences has mastered the techniques and platforms for manipulating Drosophila neurons and is well positioned to initiate mechanistic exploration at all levels, from genes, neurons to circuits. Below, we briefly describe the applications of fruit flies in systems neuroscience research.

Drosophila Benefits in Systems Neuroscience Research

  • Similar neurotransmitters, channels, and wiring modules as those in mammalian brains
  • Identifiable and genetically tractable neurons and circuits
  • A rich set of behaviors and basic cognitive abilities
  • Mature electrophysiology, imaging and molecular cell biology methods
  • Lower research and maintenance costs

Systems Neuroscience in Drosophila

Systems neuroscience is the science of understanding how the brain coordinates behavior. However, this is relatively complicated to study in mammals because their neuronal connectivity are often unknown and complex. Fortunately, those problems are solved using Drosophila models.

Currently, Drosophila has been used in systems neuroscience studies, such as auditory, gustatory, olfactory, visual systems, learning and memory, and sleep regulation.

A series of systems neuroscience research methods applicable to fliesFig.1 A series of systems neuroscience research methods applicable to flies (Kazama. 2015)

Sleep Research Using Drosophila

Sleep-related disorders have become a synaptic health care problem. The neural and genetic mechanisms regulating sleep and wakefulness are complex. And Drosophila, the success organism used in circadian rhythm studies, already has a good research base. Flies are mainly used to reveal the genetic mechanisms of sleep regulation and related diseases, as well as bio-signal analysis.

Sensory Perception Research Using Drosophila

Sensory perception is an important function to obtain information from the outside world and communicate with others, involving numerous neurons and brain regions. Drosophila has a variety of sensitive senses, including vision, taste, hearing, smell and pain. It can be used as a simple and conservative research model to advance the study of mammalian perceptual functions and related disease mechanisms.

Learning and Memory Research Using Drosophila

Impairments in learning and memory function are associated with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and intellectual disability. Thus uncovering the roles of cells and circuits in learning and memory behaviors is an important step in refining treatment options. Drosophila has a complex information processing and learning capacity that can form associative and non-associative memories. It is a perfect model for achieving balance between sufficient function and relatively simple structure.

At CD BioSciences, we are committed to advancing bioscience technology and basic research using Drosophila. We provide a total solution for neuroscience research to our clients worldwide. Please feel free to contact us starting your private project customization.

Reference

  • Kazama H. (2015). Systems neuroscience in Drosophila: conceptual and technical advantages. Neuroscience, 296, 3-14.

For research use only. Not intended for any clinical use.

Related Services