Union's tool is designed to work with the nematode, fruit fly or other small animal models. Nematodes have a high number of neurons, so they are good models for scientists exploring diseases of the human nervous system. They do not have a cardiovascular system, so they cannot be used for that kind of study. Through Union's screening system, nematodes in a solution are quickly sampled. The worms pass one by one through a laser beam that distinguishes types of nematodes, and they are sorted into small trays.
Researchers then can study the nematode' reaction to potential drug candidates.
Because their life span is just a few days long, drug effects during a lifetime also can be observed. This screening system replaces the conventional method where scientists using microscopes manually select worms for their studies. The platform was launched about two years ago after Union designed it to suit a particular pharmaceutical company's needs. When Union realized how broad the utility could be, it began offering the platform to other customers. Union works with its partners to help uncover the link between compounds and biological function.