WOrM Podcast: Whole Organism Analytics Podcast

In this episode, we explore a high-tech twist on developmental toxicology. Researchers have combined microfluidic engineering with machine learning to automate the analysis of thousands of C. elegans for chemical toxicity testing — no anaesthetics or low-res imaging required. Using the vivoChip device and a custom ML model called vivoBodySeg , the team: Captures 3D images of ~1000 worms from 24 po...

In this episode, we follow Caenorhabditis elegans into the magnetic field. Researchers have developed an elegant way to measure whole-brain neural activity in freely moving worms using a calcium-sensitive MRI contrast agent — a major step toward non-invasive brain mapping at the organism scale. We explore: How a genetically targeted MRI probe was used to detect calcium flux across the entire worm...

In this episode, we climb into the world of nematode architecture — worm towers! Researchers have now captured Caenorhabditis worms forming vertical towers in nature — self-assembled living structures that help worms hitch rides and bridge gaps as a form of collective dispersal . We explore: First real-world evidence of towering in C. elegans and other Caenorhabditis species Lab experiments that t...

In this episode, we go beyond the famous C. elegans connectome to explore how signal propagation doesn’t always follow the wires. Using powerful whole-brain calcium imaging combined with single-cell optogenetic activation , researchers mapped over 23,000 neuron pairings to build a functional atlas that rewrites parts of the worm’s wiring diagram. We dive into: How extrasynaptic neuropeptide signal...

In this episode, we travel back to one of the great origin stories in gene regulation: the discovery of lin-4 , the first-ever microRNA. In Caenorhabditis elegans , scientists found that tiny non-coding RNAs could silence gene expression by pairing with target mRNAs — launching the entire field of microRNA biology. We explore: How lin-4 regulates developmental timing by repressing LIN-14 protein T...

In this episode, we track how Strongyloides stercoralis — a human-infective nematode — uses carbon dioxide sensing to navigate both outside and inside its host. This tiny parasite shifts its response to CO₂ depending on life stage: repelled when searching for a host, but attracted once inside. We explore: Life-stage-specific behaviour: iL3s flee CO₂, iL3as chase it How Ss-BAG neurons detect CO₂ vi...

In this episode, we ask: can a heartless worm model arrhythmia? Turns out — yes. Using Caenorhabditis elegans as a stand-in for cardiac muscle , researchers tested the effects of polypyrrole nanoparticles (Ppy NPs) on pharyngeal pumping rhythms , revealing fascinating insights into how bioengineered materials might impact human-like tissues. We explore: How the worm pharynx mimics cardiac function...

In this episode, we explore how Caenorhabditis elegans senses and responds to oxygen — not just by breathing, but by activating a finely tuned cGMP signalling network in real time. Using genetically encoded biosensors, researchers reveal how rising oxygen levels trigger tonic cGMP and Ca²⁺ responses in O₂-sensing neurons like PQR , and how a web of feedback loops controls these signals to shape be...

In this episode, we dive into a genetic mystery: how can a single gene in plant-parasitic nematodes have thousands of alleles ? This study unravels the bizarre behaviour of HYP effectors — genes that help nematodes infect plants but defy traditional genetics. Using CRISPR, long-read sequencing, and clever maths, the researchers reveal: ​How the HYP gene rearranges motifs in its hyper-variable doma...

In this episode, we rewind to one of biology’s biggest plot twists: RNA interference (RNAi) . Scientists found that injecting double-stranded RNA into Caenorhabditis elegans could silence genes powerfully and precisely —far beyond anything single strands could achieve. This game-changing discovery revealed: How dsRNA triggers targeted gene shutdown Why only a few molecules can silence thousands of...

In this episode, we uncover how Caenorhabditis elegans males pick the right mate — by literally feeling for it! Researchers discovered that body stiffness , controlled by special furrow collagens , acts as a key mechanical cue for contact-mediated mate recognition . We discuss: How males detect species, sex, and reproductive stage through touch Why body stiffness and surface signals must work toge...

How does a tiny worm coordinate complex escape behaviour? In this episode, we dive into how the neurotransmitter tyramine triggers rapid, coordinated escape in Caenorhabditis elegans . Researchers uncovered that tyramine activates a newly discovered tyramine-gated chloride channel , LGC-55 , which suppresses head movements and promotes sustained backward locomotion after anterior touch. We explore...

Why don’t fast-growing worms end up giants and slow ones stay tiny? In this episode, we explore how Caenorhabditis elegans uses a clever trick: coupling growth rate with developmental speed to keep body sizes uniform. Live imaging reveals that worms with faster growth develop quicker, while slower growers take their time — cancelling out size differences. Instead of strict size checkpoints (like m...

In this episode, we explore a real-world predator–prey arms race: how Caenorhabditis elegans uses its anterior touch response to escape predacious fungi . Species like Drechslerella doedycoides use constricting hyphal rings to trap nematodes in soil. But thanks to mechanosensory neurons and fast reflexes , C. elegans larvae can sense the noose and back out — if they’re fast enough. We dive into: T...

How do predatory nematodes avoid cannibalising their own offspring? In this episode, we explore a remarkable study that uncovers a peptide-based self-recognition system in Pristionchus pacificus . This system hinges on a single hypervariable peptide , SELF-1 , which allows individuals to distinguish between kin and non-kin—preventing self-killing but enabling predation on rivals. We discuss: The d...

How does a nematode’s feeding strategy shape its gut biology and disease resistance? In this episode, we explore a comparative gut transcriptomics study of Caenorhabditis elegans and Pristionchus pacificus that reveals how changes in anatomy and lifestyle have led to major shifts in gene expression and pathogen susceptibility . We discuss: Why P. pacificus lacks the grinder structure and how this...

In this episode, we explore the next generation of polymeric drug carriers , made from sustainably sourced glycerol and diglycerol. Researchers are replacing traditional PEGylated polymers with innovative glycerol-based polyesters and copolyesters that are biodegradable, biocompatible, and free from PEG-related immunogenic risks. We cover four recent studies investigating how changes to the polyme...

Tracking drug delivery inside cells is a challenge when the drug carrier itself is invisible . In this episode, we discuss a breakthrough in polymer science: the creation of fluorescent poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles using a one-step, solvent-free dye-initiated polymerisation process . By covalently attaching dyes (blue, green, or red) to every PLGA chain, these nanoparticles b...

Can a normally bacteria-feeding nematode become a blood-feeder? In this episode, we dive into the surprising world of haematophagic Caenorhabditis elegans — worms that can consume human blood . This research explores how feeding C. elegans a diet of erythrocytes (red blood cells) could help accelerate vaccine development for parasitic infections like hookworm disease. By studying the enzymes used...

How does a tiny hookworm outsmart the human immune system? In this episode, we explore the physicochemical fingerprint of Necator americanus , a parasite that infects millions worldwide. Using cutting-edge techniques like atomic force microscopy (AFM) and time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS) , researchers reveal how the hookworm’s sheath and cuticle surfaces play a crucial rol...

Did you know that digestion in C. elegans follows a rhythmic pH cycle ? In this episode, we explore how magic nanosensors uncover real-time intestinal pH oscillations inside these tiny nematodes. By mapping the gut’s acidic landscape , researchers reveal how proton pumps, digestion, and metabolism work together in a synchronised chemical dance—offering new insights for biomedicine and drug discove...

In this episode, we uncover a revolutionary approach to imaging the hidden mechanical properties of biological surfaces using Label-Free Brillouin Endo-Microscopy . Unlike traditional imaging techniques that rely on fluorescent labels, this method provides quantitative 3D viscoelastic mapping at the sub-micrometre scale—offering unprecedented insights into biological structures. 🔍 Key Topics Cove...

In this episode, we explore how microgravity affects muscle structure and function, using Caenorhabditis elegans as a model organism. Spaceflight-induced muscle atrophy is a major challenge for astronauts, and understanding the molecular and genetic mechanisms behind these changes is key to developing countermeasures. This discussion is based on the review article: “Advancing Insights into Microgr...

Surface Lipids in Nematodes are Influenced by Development and Species-specific Adaptations This research utilizes 3D-OrbiSIMS to analyze the surface lipids of nematodes, specifically Caenorhabditis elegans and Pristionchus pacificus , revealing their complex chemical compositions. Surface lipids are found to be developmentally dependent and species-specific, highlighting evolutionary adaptations....