Figure 7. A model for gustatory pheromone perception in peripheral and central neural circuits.
Gr68a neurons on the foreleg relay chemosensory and mechanosensory signals to the subesophageal zone (SEZ) and AMMC, respectively. Movement detection via Gr68a neurons contributes to the decision to court, possibly through TK signaling. The c929-TK cell cluster within the SEZ transduces information via TK release to higher order centers, potentially including the P1 courtship ‘command center’. Metabolic stress responses and pheromone detection converge on the c929-TK cluster. Overall levels of TK release from this group of 8–10 cells could modulate the behavioral switch between aggression and courtship.