Retzius cells retain functional membrane properties following 'ablation' by the neurotoxin 5,7-DHT

Abstract

The neurotoxin 5,7-dihydroxytryptamine (5,7-DHT) is generally believed to selectively ablate serotonergic neurons. Serotonin-containing Retzius cells (RZ) in the leech appear ablated by 5,7-DHT treatment. However, these brown, mis shapen , non-fluorescent neurons retain their synaptic inputs, action potentials, electronic outputs, a membrane receptor, and axonal projections.