Genes and membrane excitability in Drosophila

A collection of behavioral mutations perturbing various aspects of neuronal membrane excitability has been obtained in Drosophila. These mutations are the subjects of a multidisciplinary analysis using genetic, electrophysiological, and molecular techniques to learn how and why they perturb excitable membranes. Results from these studies can help elucidate how the signalling capabilities of different neurons are genetically specified and how changes in the activity of these cells modifies behavior.