Connections of body clock neurons affect key timing functions

Silencing synaptic output from SLP316 neurons shortened the free-running period in circadian rhythm regulation.

• Ventral lateral neurons (sLNs) are critical pacemakers in the circadian clock network.
• sLNs form strong synaptic connections with SLP316 neurons, which were previously uncharacterized.
• Silencing SLP316 neurons led to reduced daytime activity and increased daytime sleep.
• Hyperexciting SLP316 neurons resulted in lengthening of the free-running period.
• The findings suggest that SLP316 neurons, a nonclock cell type, may play a role in regulating sleep and activity timing.

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