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Non-visual light modulates behavioral memory and gene expression in Caenorhabditis elegans.
Zhijian Ji1, Bingying Wang1, Rashmi Chandra1
1Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, United States.
Elife
|February 24, 2026
Summary
Visible light triggers a new genetic pathway in non-neuronal cells of C. elegans, enhancing behavioral adaptability. This discovery reveals light
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
Background:
- Visible light affects physiological processes, but non-visual light responses are poorly understood.
- The roundworm Caenorhabditis elegans lacks eyes, making it a model for studying non-visual light responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify novel light-induced transcriptional pathways independent of the visual system.
- To investigate the role of light in modulating behavioral plasticity in C. elegans.
Main Methods:
- Investigated light-induced gene expression of cyp-14A5 in non-neuronal tissues.
- Utilized bZIP transcription factors (ZIP-2, CEBP-2) and controlled visible-spectrum LEDs.
- Examined wavelength dependency and independence from known photoreceptors (LITE-1, GUR-3).
Main Results:
- Discovered a light-activated pathway in non-neuronal cells, inducing cyp-14A5 expression.
- Demonstrated that light induction is wavelength-dependent (shorter wavelengths) but bypasses known photoreceptors.
- Showed this pathway enhances behavioral adaptability and olfactory memory, suggesting body-brain communication.
Conclusions:
- Identified a novel bZIP-dependent genetic pathway for light response in non-neuronal tissues.
- This pathway influences behavioral plasticity and memory in C. elegans.
- Developed a new tool for visible light-inducible gene expression in non-neuronal cells.
