Noninvasive, Label-Free Imaging of Freely Moving C. elegans Nematodes
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Noninvasive, label-free imaging of freely moving nematodes offers a powerful but technically demanding approach for behavioral and morphological studies. Key challenges arise from their microscopic size, rapid and intricate locomotion patterns, uniform soft-tissue composition with low intrinsic contrast, and the stringent requirements for imaging systems capable of simultaneously achieving high spatiotemporal resolution and exceptional soft-tissue sensitivity. To overcome these challenges, we employed ultrafast phase-contrast x-ray imaging (PCXI) and phase-contrast computed tomography (PCCT). PCXI was conducted at a detector acquisition speed of 500 fps, while PCCT leveraged a synchronized system comprising a fast-acquisition detector (4000 fps), a rapid-rotation stage ( 1800 ∘ / s ), and a precision electromechanical shutter (3-ms actuation). This configuration enabled complete three-dimensional (3D) tomographic acquisition (400 projections over 180 ∘ ) in just 100 ms. Our integrated imaging platform delivers dual capabilities: PCXI enables real-time monitoring of multiple nematodes' natural behaviors, including dynamic irradiation avoidance responses, while PCCT offers comprehensive whole-organism morphometric analysis—quantifying body length, thickness, and volume—all under physiologically natural conditions without the need for anesthesia or contrast agent staining. By synergistically integrating ultrafast PCXI for dynamic two-dimensional functional analysis with PCCT for comprehensive 3D morphological characterization, this multimodal platform establishes an imaging paradigm that significantly advances the study of fast-moving microscopic organisms.
Source: PRX Life
DOI: 10.1103/j9bg-ntxw
Authors: Rongbiao Tang, Feixiang Wang, Ke Li, Yanan Fu
Language: English
Subfield: Radiation
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4417267961