Caenorhabditis elegans as a Model Host for Fusobacterium nucleatum.

Fusobacterium nucleatum is a Gram-negative bacterium that plays a central role in biofilm formation within the oral cavity. While traditionally considered a commensal organism, accumulating evidence has implicated F. nucleatum in the pathogenesis of a range of oral and systemic diseases, including various cancers, inflammatory bowel disease, and adverse pregnancy outcomes such as preterm birth. Despite its emerging recognition as a pathobiont, relatively few virulence factors have been characterized. In this study, we present Caenorhabditis elegans as a versatile and tractable model for investigating F. nucleatum virulence. We detail protocols for synchronizing C. elegans populations, assessing nematode survival postinfection, and quantifying worm motility to evaluate the physiological impact of infection. These methodologies enable high-throughput screening of F. nucleatum virulence determinants and offer a valuable platform for advancing our understanding of its pathogenic potential.