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Introduction to Caenorhabditis elegans

0:41

Classification, Habitat, and Lifespan

1:57

C. elegans: A Model System for Research

4:20

Key Discoveries from C. elegans Research

6:49

Applications

8:34

Summary

An Introduction to Caenorhabditis elegans

Caenorhabditis elegans is a microscopic, soil-dwelling roundworm that has been powerfully used as a model organism since the early 1970’s. It was initially proposed as a model for developmental biology because of its invariant body plan, ease of genetic manipulation and low cost of maintenance. Since then C. elegans has rapidly grown in popularity and is now utilized in numerous research endeavors, from studying the forces at work during locomotion to studies of neural circuitry.

This video provides an overview of basic C. elegans biology, a timeline of the many milestones in its short but storied history, and finally a few exciting applications using C. elegans as a model organism.

Caenorhabditis elegans, or "worms" to the scientists who study them, have revolutionized the way we approach genetic studies to understand how genes regulate cellular activities. The worm’s simple genetics, transparent body, and ease of cultivation makes them an ideal system for studying embryonic development, neuronal functions, lifespan and aging, and molecular basis of some human diseases.

First, lets get to know C. elegans as a model organism. Caeno