A feeding leech ignores incoming stimuli that would normally cause an avoidance response. This study found that synaptic transmission from mechanosensory neurons to postsynaptic partners was reduced in feeding leeches. This presynaptic depression by feeding could be mimicked by serotonin and was antagonized by a blocker of an unusual serotonin-gated chloride channel.
- Quentin Gaudry
- William B Kristan Jr
