Dimorphic Neural Network Architecture Prioritizes Sexual-related Behaviors in Male C. elegans

• DOI: 10.7554/elife.102309.1
• Publication Date: 2025-02-27T11:27:33Z
• Authors: Xuebin Wang; Hanzhang Liu; Wenjing Yang; Jingxuan Yang; Xuehong Sun; Qiuhan Liu; Ying Zhu; Yinghao Sun; Chunxiuzi Liu; Guiyuan Shi; Qiang Liu; Ke Zhang; Zengru Di; Wenxing Yang; He Liu
• Keywords: Sexual dimorphism; Biological neural network; Hermaphrodite; Dominance (genetics)

Neural network architecture determines its functional output. However, the detailed mechanisms are not well characterized. In this study, we focused on neural architectures of male and hermaphrodite C. elegans association with sexually dimorphic behaviors. We applied graph theory computational neuroscience methods to systematically discern features these two networks. Our findings revealed that a small percentage sexual-specific neurons exerted dominance throughout entire net-work, suggesting male’s prioritized sexual-related behavior outputs. Based structural dynamical characteristics complete networks, sub-networks containing sex-specific their immediate neighbors, or exclusively comprising sex-shared neurons, predicted behavioral outcomes for males hermaphrodites. To verify prediction, performed calcium imaging experiments dissected circuit is specific increased spontaneous local search in mate-searching. research sheds light circuits underlie behaviors elegans, provides significant insights into inter-connected relationship between at whole-brain level.