Microinjection into Xenopus oocytes: a precise semi-automatic instrument and optimal parameters for injection of mRNAs.
A new apparatus for the injection of Xenopus oocytes is described which provides semi-automatic cell handling together with highly accurate and reproducible volume delivery. Using the system requires very little skill, yet it gives 6.3% average reproducibility in the 5 to 70 nl volume range. The instrument uses a fixed injector system driven by an Inchworm piezoelectric positioner or, in a low-cost version, by a Rainin EDP-2 battery-operated motorized pipette. A movable, vacuum-operated oocyte holder minimizes lateral movement of the oocyte during injection. Oocytes injected with the system show better survival and enhanced expression of mRNA compared with those injected with a widely used type of manual injector (Coleman, 1984).
Tigyi
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G
Department of Psychobiology, University of California, Irvine 92717.
Parker
I
I
D000818:Animals; D001322:Autoanalysis / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D002138:Calibration; D015870:Gene Expression; D006801:Humans; D008845:Microinjections / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D009865:Oocytes / Q000378:metabolism; D012333:RNA, Messenger / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D013048:Specimen Handling / Q000295:instrumentation; D014982:Xenopus laevis
D012333:RNA, Messenger