Worm surface chemistry reveals secrets to their development and survival

A new study has revealed the clearest-ever picture of the surface chemistry of worm species that provides novel insights into how animals interact with their environment and each other. These discoveries could pave the way for strategies to deepen our understanding of evolutionary adaptations, refine behavioral research, and ultimately overcome parasitic infections. The research team used advanced mass spectrometry imaging to examine the nematodes Caenorhabditis elegans and Pristionchus pacificus, aiming to characterize species-specific surface chemical composition and its roles in physiology and behavior.Their results show that nematode surfaces are predominantly oily or lipid-based, forming a complex chemical landscape.

This study, published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society was a collaboration between the lab of Dr Veeren Chauhan, Assistant Professor at the University of Nottingham and our Genetics of Behavior Lab led by James Lightfoot.

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