Uruguayan Insect Research: Seven Decades Shaping Neuroscience

Abstract

Insect research has significantly advanced neuroscience by addressing fundamental questions. Uruguay has played a pivotal role in this field, contributing to foundational discoveries that comprise neuronal plasticity, circadian rhythms, and molecular neurodevelopment. Uruguayan researchers have explored synaptic activity-induced changes in developmental proteins at the neuromuscular junction and investigated age-related morphological changes in motor terminals influenced by circadian rhythms. Collaborative efforts have expanded insights into the olfactory glomeruli, revealing synaptic spinules and microcircuitry through advanced microscopy. Molecular investigations have identified temporal expression patterns of synaptic genes during neurodevelopment. Explorations into hypoxic development in the optic lobe have uncovered oxygen-mediated brain size regulation via atypical soluble guanylyl cyclases. Additionally, Uruguayan researchers have elucidated mechanisms of reversible neurodegeneration in mutants, highlighting the utility of D. melanogaster as a model for human neurodegenerative disorders. This review underscores seventy years of Uruguayan contributions to insect neuroscience, demonstrating how despite having a limited number of researchers, Uruguay has embraced and promoted interdisciplinary collaborations and innovative methodologies.