C. elegans

Caenorhabditis elegans, or C. elegans, is a small, transparent nematode that has become the most extensively studied organism in biology. Despite its simple anatomy, consisting of only 959 somatic cells and 302 neurons, C. elegans exhibits a wide range of behaviors and physiological processes that mirror those found in higher organisms. The worm’s transparency, ease of genetic manipulation, and fully sequenced genome have made it an invaluable tool for understanding the fundamental principles of life, from genetics to neurobiology.

However, despite the wealth of knowledge accumulated through decades of research, emulating the precise neural connections of C. elegans remains a challenge. The worm’s nervous system, while relatively simple, exhibits a remarkable level of complexity and plasticity. Scientists have made significant progress in mapping the worm’s neural circuitry, but understanding the precise mechanisms underlying neuronal communication and plasticity is an ongoing quest. The study of C. elegans continues to yield groundbreaking insights into the essence of life, highlighting the need for further research and technological advancements.

The page is under constant update, check back periodically as more information is added. A point of discussion about C. elegans is currently happening at LessWrong.