C. Elegans: A Tiny Worm with a Big Impact

Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) are microscopic roundworms used as model organisms in biological research. Part of their power as model organisms is that they are inexpensive, fast to raise, have a transparent body for ease of observation, and are simple with a complete sequenced genome. Although 1 mm long, C. elegans share multiple organ systems and genes with humans, making them an ideal tool for studying fundamental biological processes, genetics, aging, and various diseases. In this program, students will get to observe C. elegans under a microscope and learn how they are grown, behave, and move through multiple hands-on crafts and activities.