Stopping cell intake in fruit fly's internal clock neurons disrupts their daily rhythm through PDF signaling

Blocking Shibire function in PDF neurons slowed the behavioral rhythm of fruit flies by 3 hours.

• The neuropeptide pigment-dispersing factor (PDF) is important for regulating the circadian clock in fruit flies.
• Interference with PDF signaling was achieved by inhibiting the GTPase Shibire in PDF neurons.
• Shibire is essential for processes that recycle neurotransmitters and terminate signals in neurons.
• The slowed behavioral rhythm effect was not observed in PDF receptor null mutants, suggesting PDF receptor involvement.
• Increased PDF levels near PDF neurons produced similar effects on behavioral rhythms, indicating prolonged PDF signaling.
• Terminating PDF signaling through receptor-mediated endocytosis is crucial for determining the period of behavioral rhythms.

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