摘要：SummaryThe circadian system is comprised three components: a network of core clock cells in the brain that keeps time, input pathways that entrain clock cells to the environment, and output pathways that use this information to ensure appropriate timing of physiological and behavioral processes throughout the day. Core clock cells can be divided into molecularly distinct populations that likely make unique functional contributions. Here we clarify the role of the dorsal neuron 1 (DN1) population of clock neurons in the transmission of circadian information by theDrosophilacore clock network. Using an intersectional genetic approach that allowed us to selectively and comprehensively target DN1 cells, we show that suppressing DN1 neuronal activity alters the magnitude of daily activity and sleep without affecting overt rhythmicity. This suggests that DN1 cells are dispensable for both the generation of circadian information and the propagation of this information across output circuits.Graphical abstractDisplay OmittedHighlights•Intersectional genetic approach targets DN1 cells comprehensively and selectively•DN1p silencing alters distribution and amount of activity and sleep across the day•DN1p cell firing is neither necessary nor sufficient for circadian activity rhythms•DN1a silencing subtly alters total activity and sleep but leaves rhythmicity intactBiological sciences; Neuroscience; Behavioral neuroscience; Sensory neuroscience
