Promising Applications of Microfluidics for C. elegans Research for High-Throughput Worm Synchronization, Sorting, and Drug Screening

Abstract

Caenorhabditis elegans is a widely studied simple model organism used in laboratories
for applications such as modeling human diseases, neuronal development, and aging. This worm
features a straightforward genetic model, a transparent body, and a small neuronal circuit, along
with a short lifespan and reproductive cycle. C. elegans has traditionally been utilized in agarbased plate assays to explore fundamental research questions related to behavior, neuroscience,
aging, and genetics. However, these macroscale plate assays have limitations in resolution,
particularly at the single-worm or single-cell level. To address these limitations, microfluidic
technology has been developed, offering flexibility in controlling physical dimensions, fluid flow
parameters, and worm manipulation techniques at both single-worm and population levels.
Microfluidic technology allows for the creation of chemical concentration gradients with precise
spatial and temporal resolution, enabling detailed monitoring of worm exposure over time. This
review article discusses the existing and emerging applications of microfluidic technology assays
in C. elegans research, including various experimental techniques. We anticipate that new
applications and techniques will be developed soon to overcome the current limitations in worm
microfluidics.