Brigitte F. Schmidt

The paper investigates how s-LNv clock neurons regulate sleep through neuropeptide release and cytoneme-mediated communication with l-LNv neurons.

The paper shows that Drosophila clock neurons capture circulating neuropeptide vesicles in anticipation of release, independent of axonal expansion or calcium signaling.

The paper investigates the timing mismatch between somatic Ca2+ activity and neuropeptide release in Drosophila sLNv neurons, finding that terminal Ca2+ spiking and neuropeptide release peak midmorning, hours before their behavioral effects.

The paper shows that cAMP signaling opens dilating synaptic fusion pores for releasing large proteins, while Ca2+ triggers narrower pores for smaller cargo.