Nematode Caenorhabditis Elegans

Neuromodulators have been key elements in all neurological functions in the central nervous system (CNS). Those chemicals are released from a neuron affecting other groups of neurons in the CNS. Serotonin (5-HT) is a crucial neuromodulator that modulates synaptic efficacy in the nervous system. It is most well-known for its role in the brain where it plays a major part in mood, anxiety and happiness (1), it therefore, strongly affects our social life. In the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, many behaviors are regulated by 5-HT levels, which are in turn regulated by the presence or absence of food (2). Behavioral assays will be done on the model organism, C. elegans, to see their responses to the different stimuli, and their effects on 5-HT levels.
ASH neurons are special polymodal nociceptive sensory neurons found in Caenorhabditis elegans. Special interest is dedicated to those neurons because they are the key cellular elements responsible for avoidance behaviors in response to chemical repellents, high osmotic solutions and nose touch (3). My goal is to further and better understand neuromodulator’s effects in the nervous system. Which will help us understand the regulation of diverse populations of neurons in our brain. This can furthermore advance our knowledge of such neuromodulators, and how they affect