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Neuronal Development, Synaptic Function and Behavior, Madison, WI,
2010]
We report an automated on-chip approach for performing laser axotomies of fluorescently tagged mechanosensory neurons in living C. elegans. The optimized microfluidic design is capable of reducing the time required to perform axotomies in single worms by at least one order of magnitude as compared to manual axotomies. Specifically, the automated platform uses a T-shaped design that serially transports, positions, and immobilizes worms. Using image processing algorithms, the automated system can identify and ablate targeted axons at an average rate of ~30 seconds per axon. We tested the performance of the system on two mechanosensory neurons (ALM and PLM) of two different mutant strains (SK4005 and CX7123). Direct comparison of axotomies on-chip with those on agar pads using an anesthetic for immobilization, indicates no statistical difference in axon reconnection probabilities. This automated and high-throughput platform establishes a promising methodology for prospective genome-wide screening of nerve regeneration.