New calcium indicator enables faster and more precise measurements in C. elegans

The research group “Neural Information Flow” at the Max Planck Institute for Neurobiology of Behavior – caesar in Bonn has successfully adapted an improved genetically encoded calcium indicator called GCaMP8f for use in the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans. This innovation allows for unprecedented speed and precision in measuring intracellular calcium dynamics in muscles and neurons. Led by Dr. Monika Scholz, the team developed several strains of C. elegans that express GCaMP8f. Compared to previous indicators, GCaMP8f exhibits greater brightness upon binding to calcium, faster response times, and does not disrupt the pharynx's natural contraction patterns. This advancement opens new possibilities for detecting rapid calcium transients in various cell types, even at low magnifications.

"The improved sensitivity and speed of GCaMP8f allow us to observe neuronal activities and muscle movements more precisely than ever before," explains Dr. Liu. "This will help us better understand the fundamental mechanisms of signal processing and behavioral coordination in nervous systems."

The team validated the new indicator by measuring pharyngeal muscle activity and the activity of mechanoreceptor neurons. They were able to detect robust calcium transients even at small stimulus amplitudes. The results demonstrate GCaMP8f's potential as a powerful tool for research in C. elegans and possibly inspire its use in other organisms. This sensitive indicator will enable new insights into the neural control of behavior and significantly advance research in neurobiology.

The full study has been published in the journal Genetics.

[Jun Liu, Elsa Bonnard, Monika Scholz, Adapting and optimizing GCaMP8f for use in Caenorhabditis elegans, Genetics, Volume 228, Issue 2, October 2024, iyae12]