Abstract
Mammalian vasculature, and the analogous tracheal system in Drosophila, can respond dynamically to hypoxic conditions to maintain a constant supply of oxygen to peripheral tissues. In a recent study published in Cell, Linneweber et al (2014) reveal that tracheal plasticity can also be regulated by nutrient availability, through both systemic and local insulin signaling. They also show that specific neurons ennervating the intestine can respond to nutrient cues and direct long-lasting changes in tracheal morphology that provide metabolic benefits for the organism.