A protocol for imaging calcium and chloride in C. elegans glia upon touch stimulation

STAR Protoc. 2022 Apr 13;3(2):101282. doi: 10.1016/j.xpro.2022.101282. eCollection 2022 Jun 17.

Abstract

Glia are important for the function of touch receptors. Here, we present a protocol in Caenorhabditis elegans for calcium and chloride imaging in worm glia upon nose touch stimulation. We describe aspects of the procedure that are essential for data reproducibility, including worm immobilization, poking angle, and applied force. We then detail data processing and analysis of calcium and chloride transients in glia. This protocol can be used for other types of mechanical stimulations or for stimulation using odorants. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Fernandez-Abascal et al., 2022.

Keywords: Microscopy; Model Organisms; Neuroscience.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Caenorhabditis elegans* / physiology
  • Calcium, Dietary
  • Chlorides
  • Neuroglia
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Touch* / physiology

Substances

  • Calcium, Dietary
  • Chlorides