Low-magnification live imaging of Xenopus embryos for cell and developmental biology

Biological processes occur dynamically, so dynamic analyses are essential to further our understanding of them. Embryos of the frog Xenopus laevis are an ideal model system for time-lapse imaging of biological processes. Xenopus embryos are especially amenable to in vivo imaging of whole embryos, individual cells, and subcellular processes. Low-magnification imaging of intact Xenopus embryos can be combined effectively with manipulations of gene function and has provided key insights into the control of morphogenetic movements during gastrulation and neural tube closure. The utility of this approach is not limited to tissue movements, but rather extends to studies of cytokinesis, wound healing, and other dynamic events. This protocol describes methods for low-magnification time-lapse imaging of intact Xenopus embryos.