Sensing of internal body status is essential for proper functioning and homeostasis of many different organ systems, the so-called brain-body connection. We study the functions of internal sensory neurons in Drosophila larvae, focusing on neurons that innervate the respiratory system. We have identified anatomical and molecular features of this system that point to extensive functional heterogeneity, which we are currently examining using behavioral and physiological approaches. Our current studies focus on identifying the diverse roles for interoception in physiological homeostasis, from the biochemical to behavioral levels.
