Lecture 31: Using worms as a model organism
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(version 21 October, 1999)
Why the worm (C.elegans)?
A. Numerous experimental advantages
e.g.,
i. Easy
to culture e.g., short generation time:
ii.
Worm
is transparent
iii.
Every
single cell and its lineage has been identified
iv.
Complete
cellular anatomy is known from 20,000 serial sections through
a worm.
v.
Potential
to identify the function of every single cell in the body!
vi.
Excellent
genetics, involving hermaphrodites and males.
vii.
Small
genome that will soon be completely sequenced
B. A multicellular organism with complex structures
(e.g., nerves) and behaviors (e.g., locomotion, sensory perception). A model organism for studying development and
behavior.