Different Functions For Homologous Serotonergic Interneurons And Serotonin In Species-Specific Rhythmic Behaviors

Main Category: Biology / Biochemistry
Also Included In: Neurology / Neuroscience;  Veterinary
Article Date: 10 Sep 2008 - 6:00 PDT

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How can closely-related species exhibit different behaviors, despite similarities in their nervous systems? In some invertebrates, single nerve cells (neurons) can be recognized across individuals within a species and even across species, allowing functional comparisons.

Here, it was found that a neuron containing the neurotransmitter serotonin has different functions in two sea slugs. In one species, it was known that the neuron is necessary for swimming.

However, in a related species with a different swimming behavior, these neurons are optional. This is a rare demonstration that the functions of individual neurons can indeed change during the evolution of species-specific behaviors.

Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences

Proceedings B is the Royal Society's flagship biological research journal, dedicated to the rapid publication and broad dissemination of high-quality research papers, reviews and comment and reply papers. The scope of journal is diverse and is especially strong in organismal biology.

Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences