LITE-1 mediates behavioral responses to X-rays in Caenorhabditis elegans

Rapid sensory detection of X-ray stimulation has been documented across a wide variety species, but few studies have explored the underlying molecular mechanisms. Here we report discovery an acute behavioral avoidance response in wild type Caenorhabditis elegans to stimulation. The endogenous C. UV-photoreceptor protein LITE-1 was found mediate locomotory response. Transgenic expression muscle cells resulted paralysis and egg ejection responses stimulation, demonstrating that ectopic can confer sensitivity otherwise insensitive cells. This work represents first demonstration rapid based genetically targeted (X-genetic) manipulation cellular electrical activity intact behaving animals. Our findings suggest strong potential for use this minimally invasive form neuromodulation transduce transcranial signals precise neural mammals, bypassing need surgical implants deliver