Researchers at Harvard University have discovered a way to control tiny worms with laser light. The system named CoLBeRT for “Controlling Locomotion and Behavior in Real Time”, named after the comedian Stephen Colbert, can make worms turn, freeze and lay eggs. The system allows scientists to work on a cell-by-cell basis to modify behaviour. One of the reasons this is so easy is because nematodes are easily controlled by light. Researchers also know the location of all 302 nerve cells on the worms. CoLBeRT allows them to control each nerve cell and see how the neurons affect the worm.
CoLBeRT works through optogenetics, where light can be pinpointed to switch cells on and off. The researchers engineered molecules into the worm’s cells that respond to light. A computer program determines where the cell is, and when it is located, the program arranges the lasers so a thin light beam hits the cell. This process takes 20 milliseconds. As the worm moves, the computer program analyzes this and the laser is adjusted. A motorized microscope stage brings the worm back should it move too far. This allows the organism to move around freely, which is more challenging in microscopic tests.The researchers also tested the durability of cells. By stimulating head nerve cells, the worms would move backward. Too much stimulation caused the cells to desensitize, and untouched partner cells would also not respond.
A group of scientists at Georgia Tech has a similar technique for controlling the nerves of worms, which is more effective if the worm is crawling slowly. Both projects could lead to breakthroughs in nerve control and understanding each cell’s role in the behaviour of animals. This research could be useful not only in controlling organisms but in studying the nervous system of animals and humans. Imagine how much could be learned about the movements and operations of organisms if we could understand how every cell contributes to the whole.
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