Use of freeze-cracking in ontogenetic research in Macrostomum lignano (Macrostomida, Rhabditophora).
A method for studying whole mount flatworm embryos based on freeze-cracking of the eggs is described. This method allows successful immunohistological and immunocytological studies of whole mount embryos. It does not require the use of sharpened needles or a microinjection system to puncture the eggshell. Moreover, this method is more practical and less time-consuming than classical puncturing and much cheaper than the use of a microinjection system. The advantages of this method are illustrated by results of several immunolocalisation experiments in the macrostomid flatworm Macrostomum lignano. The optimal procedure and crucial steps for this method are discussed.
Willems
Maxime
M
Nematology Section, Department of Biology, Ghent University, K. L. Ledeganckstraat 35, Ghent 9000, Belgium. maxime.willems@ugent.be
Boone
Mieke
M
Couvreur
Marjolein
M
De Mulder
Katrien
K
Van Ranst
Jelka
J
Artois
Tom
T
Borgonie
Gaëtan
G
D000818:Animals; D004626:Embryology / Q000379:methods; D005615:Freezing; D014419:Turbellaria / Q000196:embryology*