Generation of mechanosensory neurons in adult Drosophila

Auditory and vestibular mechanosensory hair cells in the adult mammalian inner ear do not regenerate following injury or ageing, inducing irreversible hearing loss and balance disorders for millions of people. Research on model systems showing replacement of mechanosensory cells can provide mechanistic insight to develop new regenerative therapies. Here we developed new lineage tracing systems to reveal the generation of mechanosensory neurons (Johnston’s Organ, JO) in the antennae of intact adult . New JO neurons develop cilia, express an essential mechano-transducer gene and target central brain circuitry. Furthermore, we identified low-level JO self-replication as a new mechanism of neuronal plasticity. Overall, our findings introduce a new platform to expedite the research of mechanisms and compounds mediating mechanosensory cell regeneration.