Caenorhabditis elegans: a nature present for advanced food science

• Published in: Current opinion in food science 2023-02, Vol.49, p.100971, Article 100971
• Main Authors: Li, Yonglu, Wang, Yadi, Li, Ping, Zhou, Qingqing, Zheng, Xiaodong, Gu, Qing
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 2214-7993; 2214-8000
• DOI: 10.1016/j.cofs.2022.100971

Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) has been applied in multifield scientific studies with a long history and well-explained mechanisms. Based on systematic background, this model organism has been led to food science for about two decades, mainly contributing to food toxicology and nutrition evaluation. Given the unique characteristics of the transparent body, clear life cycle, short lifespan, simple culture technique, easy observation, simplex living conditions, large embryos and offspring for sufficient sample volume, clear genome background, and well-established mutants, C. elegans model is becoming a driving force in food science with high sensitivity, efficiency, accuracy, and profundity, as it combines the advantages both in vitro and in vivo. In this review, we survey the state-of-the-art methods to build C. elegans models in food science. Regarding the nematodes in food science, we discuss their necessity and essentiality while analyzing the pros and cons. Potential challenges are summarized and the corresponding solutions are provided. Furthermore, futural developing trends and perspectives are envisioned. This review would provide useful information and inspiration for worms’ exploration and exploitation in the near future. [Display omitted]