Preparation of early Drosophila embryonic fillets (before cuticle deposition)

This article describes the dissection of early Drosophila embryos to generate flat or fillet preparations. For the procedure, a modified chamber or well is designed using glass slides and sealant. Embryos are dissected by removing the chorionic (outer) membrane (performed outside the chamber) and then removing the vitelline (inner) membrane (performed inside the chamber and under saline).