A cold and quiet brain: mechanisms of insect CNS arrest at low temperatures

Exposure to cold causes insects to enter a chill coma at species-specific temperatures and such temperature sensitivity contributes to geographic distribution and phenology. Coma results from abrupt spreading depolarization (SD) of neural tissue in the integrative centers of the central nervous system (CNS). SD abolishes neuronal signaling and the operation of neural circuits, like an off switch for the CNS. Turning off the CNS by allowing ion gradients to collapse will conserve energy and may offset negative consequences of temporary immobility. SD is modified by prior experience via rapid cold hardening (RCH) or cold acclimation that alter properties of Kv channels, Na+/K+-ATPase, and Na+/K+/2Cl– cotransporter. The stress hormone octopamine mediates RCH. Future progress depends on developing a more complete understanding of ion homeostasis in and of the insect CNS.