Optogenetic stimulation of a subset of dopaminergic neurons in drosophila

Model organisms like Drosophila have been assets to many researchers, especially those in the field of neurobiology, as they provide a platform with which different kinds of phenomena can be observed and studied. Advancing technology has aided this progress; genomic engineering methods like the binary expression system and optogenetics are now available to researchers who wish to streamline the process of creating simulation models of neuronal function and the effects that result when neurons are stimulated in certain ways. This study utilizes the above technologies to express a light-activated ion channel, CsChrimson, in a specific subset of neurons to modulate Drosophila behaviour. Specifically, startle-induced climbing behaviour in Drosophila was assessed during optogenetic stimulation of a subset of dopaminergic neurons.Bachelor of Science in Biological Science