Improved Long-Term Imaging of Embryos with Genetically Encoded α-Bungarotoxin.

ABSTRACT: Rapid advances in microscopy and genetic labeling strategies have created new opportunities for time-lapse imaging of embryonic development. However, methods for immobilizing embryos for long periods while maintaining normal development have changed little. In zebrafish, current immobilization techniques rely on the anesthetic tricaine. Unfortunately, prolonged tricaine treatment at concentrations high enough to immobilize the embryo produces undesirable side effects on development. We evaluate three alternative immobilization strategies: combinatorial soaking in tricaine and isoeugenol, injection of α-bungarotoxin protein, and injection of α-bungarotoxin mRNA. We find evidence for co-operation between tricaine and isoeugenol to give immobility with improved health. However, even in combin

SUBMITTER: Swinburne IA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4526548 | biostudies-literature | 2015

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature