Neural sequences underlying directed turning in Caenorhabditis elegans

Abstract Complex behaviors, such as navigation, rely on sequenced motor outputs that combine to generate effective movement. The brain-wide organization of the circuits that integrate sensory signals to select appropriate motor sequences remains poorly understood. Here we characterize the architecture of neural circuits that control Caenorhabditis elegans olfactory navigation. We identify error-correcting turns during navigation and use whole-brain calcium imaging and cell-specific perturbations to determine their neural underpinnings. These turns occur as motor sequences accompanied by neural sequences, in which defined neurons activate in a stereotyped order during each turn. Distinct neurons in this sequence respond to the spatial distribution of attractive and aversive olfactory cues, anticipate upcoming turn directions and drive movement, linking key features of this sensorimotor behavior across time. The neuromodulator tyramine coordinates these sequential brain dynamics. Our results illustrate how neuromodulation can act on a defined neural architecture to link sensory cues to motor actions.