Scientists Achieve Breakthrough in Amphibian Neural Circuit Research

A new technique using harmless viruses allows detailed mapping of frog nervous systems, advancing understanding of neural development and evolution.

Researchers have successfully adapted adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) to study the nervous systems of amphibians, particularly frogs, throughout their development.
The technique enables scientists to trace neural circuits during the metamorphic transition from tadpole to adult frog, revealing changes in connectivity as locomotion shifts from swimming to walking.
This advancement provides a detailed view of how neural circuits are established and modified, offering insights into the evolution of the nervous system across species, including comparisons to humans.
The study, published in *Developmental Cell*, was a collaborative effort involving international institutions, resulting in a step-by-step guide for applying AAV tools to different amphibian life stages.
The findings have implications for understanding human neurobiology, potentially informing treatments for nervous system diseases and injuries by exploring how neural systems adapt and develop.