Using the Model Organism Caenorhabditis elegans to Explore Neuromuscular Function

The 1 mm long worm Caenorhabditis elegans is a free-living nonparasitic nematode found around the world. It offers a simple example of animal biology. The striking level of homology between C. elegans and mammals at the genetic, cellular, tissue, and organ level means that the worm offers a unique opportunity to explore various aspects of development. By working with C. elegans, it is possible to link molecular, cellular, and tissue level mechanisms with movement and behavior. This chapter aims to provide a brief introduction to C. elegans and describes the main approaches that assess the physical performance of C. elegans using methods analogous to those used in human performance assessment, such as cardiorespiratory endurance, muscle strength, and body composition. Recent advances have allowed such measurements to be obtained in nematodes, and the experiments described here allow physical performance or fitness to be measured in C. elegans as a proxy for humans, which also provides a means by which to investigate how age, diet, drugs, and the environment may affect muscle biology. This chapter provides an introductory guide to those who are not currently in the nematode field but are interested in using C. elegans to explore the structure and function of muscle with a view to elucidate human neuromuscular function, which is essential if we are to fully understand human health and disease.