Model Organism

Introduction to Organ-on-Chip Models Organ-on-chip models are advanced microphysiological systems that recreate key structural and functional features of human organs in a controlled laboratory setting. These devices integrate living human cells within microfluidic channels, allowing researchers to simulate tissue–tissue interfaces, fluid flow, and mechanical forces that are essential for normal organ function. Unlike traditional cell cultures, which often lack these dynamic physiological cues,...

Transgenesis, or the use of genetic engineering to alter gene expression, is widely used in the field of developmental biology. Scientists use a number of approaches to alter the function of genes to understand their roles in developmental processes. This includes replacement of a gene with a nonfunctional copy, or adding a visualizable tag to a gene that allows the resultant fusion protein to be tracked throughout development. In this video, the viewers will learn about the principles behind...

All animal procedures described here must be conducted in accordance with institutional animal ethics guidelines and approved by IACUC. All procedures must follow the principles of the 3Rs—Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement—and must be performed by trained personnel. Introduction to C. elegans The nematode (roundworm) Caenorhabditis elegans, commonly known as C. elegans, is a widely used non-vertebrate animal model for studying fundamental biological processes. Because many cellular and...

All animal procedures described here must be conducted in accordance with institutional animal ethics guidelines and approved by IACUC. All procedures must follow the principles of the 3Rs—Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement—and must be performed by trained personnel. Zebrafish (Danio rerio) are widely used as an alternative vertebrate model organism in biomedical research. Their genetic similarity to humans, rapid development, and suitability for large-scale studies make them valuable tools...

Drosophila melanogaster, commonly known as the fruit fly, is a widely used model organism in biological and biomedical research. Researchers widely use Drosophila because of its short life cycle, high reproductive capacity, ease of maintenance, and the conservation of many genes and signaling pathways shared with humans. Under controlled laboratory conditions, flies are cultured on nutrient-rich media and typically progress from embryo to adult within approximately 8–12 days at 25 °C. This...