Methods (San Diego, Calif.)Apr 15, 2014

Tools for Measuring Lifespan in C. elegans Worms

Updated Mar 30, 2026

Abstract

The lifespan of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans can be precisely measured, providing insights into aging biology.

Single gene mutations in C. elegans have been shown to double its lifespan.
Different genetic, physiological, and environmental factors can significantly impact the aging process in these worms.
Classical lifespan assays are typically conducted on solid media, while recent advances allow for high-throughput experiments in liquid culture and microfluidic devices.
Various tools are available for analyzing data to obtain survival statistics related to lifespan studies.
Specific strains of C. elegans may offer unique advantages for conducting lifespan research.

Simplified

Since the discovery of single gene mutations that double its lifespan, the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans has provided remarkable insights into the biology of aging. The precisely measurable lifespan of worms has proven to be an efficient tool to assess the impact of various genetic, physiological and environmental factors on organismal aging. In this article, we describe methods to set up and monitor experiments to determine worm lifespan. We include procedures used for classical, small-scale lifespan assays that are generally performed on solid media, and review recent advances in high-throughput, automated longevity experiments conducted in liquid culture and microfluidic devices. In addition, tools that help analyze this data to obtain survival statistics are summarized, and C. elegans strains that offer particular advantages for lifespan studies are listed.

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