摘要：SummaryTo interrogate particular neuronal pathways in nonhuman primates under natural and stress-free conditions, we applied designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs (DREADDs) technology to common marmosets. We injected adeno-associated virus vectors expressing the excitatory DREADD hM3Dq into the unilateral substantia nigra (SN) in four marmosets. Using multi-tracer positron emission tomography imaging, we detected DREADD expression in vivo, which was confirmed in nigrostriatal dopamine neurons by immunohistochemistry, as well as by assessed activation of the SN following agonist administration. The marmosets rotated in a contralateral direction relative to the activated side 30–90 min after consuming food containing the highly potent DREADD agonist deschloroclozapine (DCZ) but not on the following days without DCZ. These results indicate that non-invasive and reversible DREADD manipulation will extend the utility of marmosets as a primate model for linking neuronal activity and natural behavior in various contexts.Graphical abstractDisplay OmittedHighlights•DREADDs were applied to activate unilateral nigrostriatal dopamine neurons•DREADD expression/function and marmoset behavior were monitored non-invasively•Orally delivered DREADD actuator reversibly induced contralateral rotation behavior•Non-invasive chemogenetic manipulation will broaden the utility of marmosetsBehavioral neuroscience; Molecular neuroscience; Cellular neuroscience
