In the last decade, nematodes other than C. elegans have been studied intensively in evolutionary developmental biology. A few species have been developed as satellite systems for more detailed genetic and molecular studies. One such satellite species is the diplogastrid nematode Pristionchus pacificus. Here, I provide an overview about the biology, phylogeny, ecology, genetics and genomics of P. pacificus.
Physiological methods entered the world of C. elegans, a model system used for many years to study development and a plethora of biological processes mainly employing genetic, molecular and anatomical techniques. One of the methods introduced by physiologists is the use of Xenopus oocytes for expression of C. elegans ion channels. Oocytes of the South African frog Xenopus laevis are used widely for the expression of mammalian channels and transporters contributing to numerous discoveries in these fields. They now promise to aid C. elegans researchers in deciphering mechanisms of channels function and regulation with implications for mammalian patho-physiology. Heterologous cRNA can be easily injected into Xenopus oocytes and translated proteins can be studied using several techniques including electrophysiology, immunocytochemistry and protein biochemistry. This chapter will focus on techniques used for oocyte preparation and injection, and will give a brief overview of specific methods. Limitations of the use of Xenopus oocytes will be also discussed.
Caenorhabditis elegans male mating provides an excellent opportunity to determine how sensory perception regulates behavior and motor programs. The male-specific nervous system and muscles are superimposed over the general nervous system and musculature. Genetic screens and genomic approaches have identified male-specific and male-enriched genes as well as non-sex specific molecules specialized for mating sub-behaviors. In this chapter, we discuss the cellular, genetic, and molecular basis for male mating behavior.
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