Optogenetic recruitment of dorsal raphe serotonergic neurons acutely decreases mechanosensory responsivity in behaving mice.

Abstract in brief

• This study used optogenetics to specifically activate dorsal raphe serotonergic neurons in mice, allowing researchers to observe their influence on sensory responses.
• In vitro experiments showed that serotonin neuron firing could be precisely controlled with light, and in vivo activation caused noticeable neural responses linked to serotonin activity.
• In live mice, stimulating these serotonin neurons led to a quick, reversible reduction in their responses to mechanical stimulation, supporting the idea that serotonin helps regulate sensory sensitivity.]