A Perspective on Information Optimality in a Neural Circuit

The nematode worm Caenorhabditis elegans has a relatively simple neural system for analysis of information transmission from sensory organ to muscle fiber. Therefore, an example of a neural circuit is analyzed that originates in the nematode worm, and a method is applied for measuring its information flow efficiency by use of a model of logic gates. This model-based approach is useful where the assumptions of a logic gate design are applicable. It is also an useful approach where there are competing mathematical models for explaining the role of a neural circuit since the logic gate model can estimate the computational complexity of a network, and distinguish which of the mathematical models require fewer computations. In addition, for generalization of the concept of information optimality in biological systems, there is an extensive discussion of its role in the genetic-based pathways of organisms.