Neurons that Function within an Integrator to Promote a Persistent Behavioral State in Drosophila (Neuron)

How do brains coordinate rapid reflex responses and persistent internal states underlying innate behaviors? Jung et al. describe a circuit node in male fly brains that is activated by female sensory cues and triggers both immediate courtship behavior and persistent arousal via parallel pathways. The persistent state induced by female exposure is maintained in part by pCd neurons, even after such exposure is terminated, and can be integrated with male-specific chemosensory cues that promote aggression.