Supporting data for "Synaptic and neural pathway redundancy enables the robustness of a sensory-motor reflex and promotes predation escape in <i>Caenorhabditis elegans</i>".

<p dir="ltr">Data of Thesis.</p><p dir="ltr">Redundancy is widespread in nervous systems. However, very few neural diseases are studied based on a global consideration of this characteristic. Studying redundancy is difficult because redundancy means that the system is resistant to experimental disturbance. To conquer the problem, the touch circuit of <i>Caenorhabditis elegans</i> was used because it is simple enough yet contains redundancy at various levels. Understanding the molecular basis of the circuit is a prerequisite for understanding how redundancy arises. In this study, we found that redundancy in the posterior circuit is achieved at the level of the synapse. In contrast, redundancy in the anterior circuit is ensured by the diversity of synapses, receptors, pathways, and neurons. Furthermore, we show that AVM, the conventionally deemed redundant neuron, has indispensability in response to environmental stimuli and survival from predators. Even though AVM is beneficial for worms, its development should suit the growth of the worm to achieve the greatest cost-effectiveness.</p>