The GMR18C11 enhancer fragment followed by the Drosophila synthetic core promoter (DSCP) is fused upstream of the p65(AD)::Zip+ hemidriver (component of a 'split driver' system, contains the p65 activation domain).
Comment: when combined with P{R71D01-GAL4.DBD}
In a split-GAL4 system, Hsap\RELAAD.R18C11 drives expression in antennal grooming descending neuron 1 when combined with Scer\GAL4DBD.R71D01. These neurons were seen in close proximity to Ecol\lexAGMR26B12 expressing antennal grooming brain interneuron 2 and Ecol\lexAGMR27H08 expressing zone C/E Johnston organ neurons. Positive GRASP (GFP reconstitution across synaptic partners) signals were seen between C/E Johnston organ neurons and antennal grooming descending neuron 1 using these drivers.
Thermogenetic activation (using TrpA1Scer\UAS.(B).cKa at 30-31[o]C) of neurons targeted by the split-GAL4 pair of Scer\GAL4DBD.R71D01 and Hsap\RELAAD.R18C11 results in a significant increase of antennal grooming behavior compared to control flies; this phenotype persists following antennal amputation.