In collaboration with the Condron lab (UVa Biology), we have developed a method to detect nurotransmitter changes in the nervous system of larval fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster).  The detection relies on an implanted microelectrode that can detect rapid neurotransmitter changes.  To induce endogenous release, Channelrhodopsin2, a blue-light sensitive cation channel, is genetically inserted into specific neurons, such as dopamine or serotonin neurons.   Then endogenous neurotransmitter release is induced by simply shining a blue light on a fly nerve cord and the dynamics of neurotransmission detected electrochemically.  We are currently developing methods to study both serotonin and dopamine release in the fly.  These studies are fast and will allow access to a wide array of genetics that are possible in the fly.