title: Microinjection into Xenopus oocytes: a precise semi-automatic instrument and optimal parameters for injection of mRNAs.
abstract: 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).
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychobiology, University of California, Irvine 92717.
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Tigyi
authors.forename: I
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Parker
mesh_terms: 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
chemical_list: D012333:RNA, Messenger