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Serotonin modulates a depression-like state in Drosophila responsive to lithium treatment

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  • Ariane-Saskia Ries

    (Institut für Entwicklungsbiologie und Neurobiologie, Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz)

  • Tim Hermanns

    (Institut für Entwicklungsbiologie und Neurobiologie, Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz)

  • Burkhard Poeck

    (Institut für Entwicklungsbiologie und Neurobiologie, Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz)

  • Roland Strauss

    (Institut für Entwicklungsbiologie und Neurobiologie, Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz)

Abstract

Major depressive disorder (MDD) affects millions of patients; however, the pathophysiology is poorly understood. Rodent models have been developed using chronic mild stress or unavoidable punishment (learned helplessness) to induce features of depression, like general inactivity and anhedonia. Here we report a three-day vibration-stress protocol for Drosophila that reduces voluntary behavioural activity. As in many MDD patients, lithium-chloride treatment can suppress this depression-like state in flies. The behavioural changes correlate with reduced serotonin (5-HT) release at the mushroom body (MB) and can be relieved by feeding the antidepressant 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan or sucrose, which results in elevated 5-HT levels in the brain. This relief is mediated by 5-HT-1A receptors in the α-/β-lobes of the MB, whereas 5-HT-1B receptors in the γ-lobes control behavioural inactivity. The central role of serotonin in modulating stress responses in flies and mammals indicates evolutionary conserved pathways that can provide targets for treatment and strategies to induce resilience.

Suggested Citation

  • Ariane-Saskia Ries & Tim Hermanns & Burkhard Poeck & Roland Strauss, 2017. "Serotonin modulates a depression-like state in Drosophila responsive to lithium treatment," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 8(1), pages 1-11, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:8:y:2017:i:1:d:10.1038_ncomms15738
    DOI: 10.1038/ncomms15738
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