Analysis of functions of neural circuits and processing of olfactory information in neural circuit-dependent odor adaptation in C. elegans

2013 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 22680028
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Young Scientists (A)
• Allocation Type: Single-year Grants
• Research Field: Neuroscience in general
• Research Institution: Kyushu University
• Principal Investigator: HIROTSU TAKAAKI 九州大学, 理学(系)研究科(研究院), 助教 (70404035)
• Project Period (FY): 2010-04-01 – 2014-03-31
• Keywords: 嗅覚 / イメージング / 線虫 / 神経回路 / 順応 / Ras / 嗅覚受容体

Outline of Final Research Achievements

Olfactory adaptation is classified into two classes; the peripheral adaptation and the central adaptation. We analyzed the latter type of adaptation, neural circuit-dependent adaptation, in C.elegans. In this study, we identified neurons underlying the adaptation and found these neurons change their responses to odor stimuli when the adaptation occurs. We established the in vivo imaging system to observe the activity of Ras, which plays major roles in this adaptation, and revealed quick activation and inactivation of Ras and regulatory mechanisms of them. In addition, to understand the mechanism of input of odorant stimuli, we comprehensively identified olfactory receptors for specific odorants and demonstrated different receptors respond to the same odorant when odor concentrations are different.

Free Research Field

総合領域