Circadian clock neurons constantly monitor environmental temperature to set sleep timing

The posterior dorsal neurons 1 (DN1s) in fruit flies continuously monitor modest changes in environmental temperature.

• DN1s are a specific group of clock neurons that promote sleep.
• Heating inhibits the activity of DN1s, while cooling excites them.
• DN1s depend on peripheral temperature sensors located in the chordotonal organs and aristae.
• The normal timing of sleep relies on the DN1s and their temperature-sensing inputs in response to natural temperature cycles.
• DN1s play a crucial role in integrating temperature changes to regulate sleep and activity patterns.

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