Neural basis of cognitive processes underlying insect learning

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We have proposed a model in which conditioned responses of insects requires activation of neurons that represent unconditioned stimulus. We performed experiments to evaluate predictions from this model and to examine neural substrates underlying this model. We found that crickets that received excessive training exhibit conditioned responses even after blockade of synaptic transmission from neurons that represent US, indicating habit formation in insects. We also found that the octopaminergic neurons projecting to the vertical lobe of the mushroom body participate in memory retrieval in cockroaches.