Neural regeneration: delayed formation of central contacts by insect sensory cells.

Correlated anatomical and electrophysiological results demonstrate that sensory neurons, which differentiate de novo within the epidermis of regenerate abdominal cerci of crickets, enter the terminal ganglion and form functional central connections even when regeneration of the cerci is delayed through the greater part of postembryonic development. Stimulation of regenerate cerci evokes activity in giant interneurons which is normal by several physiological criteria.