A Caenorhabditis elegans lab module provides experiential learning for molecular genetics students

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Genetics
• Developmental Biology

Background:

• Caenorhabditis elegans is a widely used biological model organism.
• Its advantages include a short life cycle, small size, and available mutant strains.
• This makes it ideal for genetic studies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a 7-week laboratory module for an upper-level molecular genetics course.
• To enable students to measure gene expression and evaluate gene influence on behavior and aging.
• To utilize Caenorhabditis elegans as a model for exploring genetic concepts.

Main Methods:

• Students used fluorescence microscopy and RT-qPCR to measure gene expression.
• Chemotaxis and survival assays were employed to assess gene influence on behavior and aging.
• Wild-type and mutant Caenorhabditis elegans strains, including GFP-expressing mutants, were used to observe genotype-phenotype relationships.

Main Results:

• Most students reported positive experiences with all lab activities, including microscopy, behavioral assays, survival analysis, and data analysis.
• Students agreed that they understood key genetic concepts like genotype vs. phenotype, mutation, and model organisms.
• Challenges were noted in worm counting and data interpretation, but students valued the module's techniques and structure.

Conclusions:

• The Caenorhabditis elegans lab module effectively facilitated student learning of genetics and molecular biology concepts.
• Students acquired valuable hands-on skills through diverse experimental techniques.
• The module successfully integrated theoretical concepts with practical application using a model organism.