Circuit Homology between Decussating Pathways in the Larval CNS and the Vertebrate Startle-Response Pathway (Current Biology)

Ryan et al. report the synaptic network of motor pathways in the CNS of a tunicate tadpole larva. This reveals hitherto unreported sensory input to premotor neurons. The network shows likely homology to pathways in the brain of tailed vertebrates that mediate startle responses through the Mauthner cells.