Abstract
Color vision requires comparison between photoreceptors that
are sensitive to different wavelengths of light. In
Drosophila, this is achieved by the inner photoreceptors
(R7~and R8) that contain different rhodopsins. Two types of
comparisons can occur in fly color vision: between the R7
(UV sensitive) and R8 (blue- or green sensitive)
photoreceptor cells within one ommatidium (unit eye) or
between different ommatidia that contain spectrally distinct
inner photoreceptors. Photoreceptors project to the optic
lobes: R1-R6, which are involved in motion detection, project
to the lamina, whereas R7 and R8 reach deeper in the
medulla. This paper analyzes the neural network underlying
color vision into the
medulla.Results\textlessbr/\textgreaterWe reconstruct
the neural network in the medulla, focusing on neurons likely
to be involved in processing color vision. We identify the
full complement of neurons in the medulla, including
second-order neurons that contact both R7 and R8 from a single
ommatidium, or contact R7 and/or R8 from different
ommatidia. We also examine third-order neurons and local
neurons that likely modulate information from second-order
neurons. Finally, we present highly specific tools that will
allow us to functionally manipulate the network and test both
activity and
behavior.Conclusions\textlessbr/\textgreaterThis precise
characterization of the medulla circuitry will allow us to
understand how color vision is processed in the optic lobe of
Drosophila, providing a paradigm for more complex systems in
vertebrates.\textless/p\textgreater
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