A continuous-flow C. elegans sorting system with integrated optical fiber detection and laminar flow switching.

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Microfluidics
• Developmental Biology

Background:

• Accurate sorting of Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) is crucial for genetic studies.
• Existing C. elegans sorting methods often require immobilization or invasive techniques, limiting throughput and potentially harming the worms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a high-throughput, continuous-flow sorting device for C. elegans.
• To enable genotype-based sorting using fluorescence detection without worm immobilization.
• To improve sorting efficiency and minimize harm to C. elegans.

Main Methods:

• Utilized integrated optical fiber detection for non-invasive, fluorescence-based genotype identification.
• Implemented a novel dynamic fluidic switch controlled by input pressures to direct worm flow.
• Operated the sorting system in a continuous flow environment, avoiding mechanical valves.

Main Results:

• Achieved high-throughput sorting of C. elegans at approximately one nematode per second.
• Demonstrated sorting efficiencies approaching 100% with high accuracy.
• Confirmed no significant negative impact on C. elegans survival, behavior, or propagation post-sorting.

Conclusions:

• The developed continuous-flow device offers an efficient and non-invasive method for sorting C. elegans.
• This technology enhances throughput and preserves worm integrity, advancing genetic research capabilities.
• The system represents a significant improvement over existing microfluidic sorting techniques.