MembersMalaya Gaerlan

I demonstrate upconverting nanoparticles’ ability to measure intraluminal forces in vivo using correlated electrical and optical measurements of pharyngeal pumping, a neuromuscular feeding behavior, in gently immobilized C. Elegans worms. Upconverting nanoparticles (UCNPs) exhibit a linear colorimetric response proportional to applied forces. When fed to live C. elegans, UCNPs are shown to non-invasively provide optical force readings of feeding mechanics within the terminal bulb. The timing and magnitude of pharyngeal pumping forces in worms with neuromuscular mutations can be assayed to screen for drug candidates that improve pumping efficacy. These nanoparticles can potentially replace current mechanosensing techniques, provide critical information about forces within hollow organs, and be used to diagnose lethal neuromuscular diseases.

Jason R. Casar, Claire A. McLellan, Cindy Shi, Ariel Stiber, Alice Lay, Chris Siefe, Abhinav Parakh, Malaya Gaerlan, Wendy Gu, Miriam B. Goodman, Jennifer A. Dionne “Upconverting microgauges reveal intraluminal force dynamics in vivo” (under review)

Katrina Guardino, Caitlan Pinotti, Malaya Gaerlan, Kimberly Burnett, Deborah Kofoed, Laura Schanberg, Rachel Randell “Designing a Mobile Health Application for Pediatric Systemic Lupus Erythematosus”