Development of a Three-dimensional Gel Culture Model of Caenorhabditis elegans Muscular Atrophy Induced by Acoustic Levitation Simulating Microgravity
Shuning Hu
China Jiliang University, College of Life Sciences, Hangzhou, 310018, China.
Zherong Yu
College of Innovation, China Jiliang University, Engineering Training Centre, Hangzhou, 310018, China.
Qingyu Xiong
China Jiliang University, College of Life Sciences, Hangzhou, 310018, China.
Ke Zhang
College of Innovation, China Jiliang University, Engineering Training Centre, Hangzhou, 310018, China.
Chun Chen *
China Jiliang University, College of Life Sciences, Hangzhou, 310018, China and College of Innovation, China Jiliang University, Engineering Training Centre, Hangzhou, 310018, China.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Aims: This study aimed to establish an acoustic levitation-based microgravity simulation model and investigate its effects on the locomotor function and muscle protein expression of Caenorhabditis elegans.
Methodology: L4-stage N2 nematodes were assessed on gel ball and on culture plate after 3-, 6-, 9-, and 12-hours post-inoculation. The acoustic levitation system was developed using the standing wave principle, with a three-dimensional gel ball culture system serving as the suspension carrier. Locomotor behavior including head swing frequency, bending frequency and swimming ability were observed after suspended for 9 hours, as well as muscle protein expression of RW1596 nematodes.
Results: Nematodes were suspended for 9 hours, during which significant reductions were observed in head swing frequency (41.67 to 21.87 times/min, a 47.52% decrease), bending frequency (19.33 to 9.4 times/min, a 51.38% decrease), and swimming frequency (38.88 to 32.19 times/min, a 17.2% decrease) (all P < 0.01). Additionally, MYO-3 protein fluorescence intensity declined by 17.87% (P < 0.0001).
Conclusion: These findings demonstrate that acoustic levitation can induce a muscle atrophy phenotype analogous to that seen in true microgravity within a short time frame. This approach avoids mechanical contact interference and provides a novel ground-based simulation platform for aerospace medical research.
Keywords: Caenorhabditis elegans, acoustic levitation, gel ball, locomotor behavior