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In vivo Laser Axotomy in C. elegans
Published on: May 19, 2011
In vivo laser axotomy in C. elegans.
Alexandra B Byrne1, Tyson J Edwards, Marc Hammarlund
1Department of Genetics, Program in Cellular Neuroscience, Neurodegeneration and Repair, Yale University School of Medicine, USA.
Journal of Visualized Experiments : Jove
|June 3, 2011
Summary
This study details an efficient laser axotomy protocol in C. elegans for studying neuronal regeneration. This method enables precise severing of neurons to analyze regeneration processes and identify influencing factors.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Regenerative Biology
- Model Organisms
Background:
- Neurons regenerate after injury, influenced by intrinsic and extrinsic factors.
- C. elegans is a valuable model for studying neuronal regeneration.
- Laser axotomy is a key method to initiate regeneration in C. elegans.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a protocol for in vivo laser axotomy in C. elegans.
- To describe an efficient method for initiating and analyzing neuronal regeneration.
- To utilize the MicroPoint pulsed laser system for targeted neuronal severing.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing a MicroPoint pulsed laser for in vivo laser axotomy.
- Describing the alignment, worm mounting, and neuron cutting procedures.
- Assessing subsequent neuronal regeneration after axotomy.
Main Results:
- The MicroPoint laser system allows for accurate and efficient severing of neurons in vivo.
- The protocol facilitates the study of neuronal regeneration in multiple worms and neurons per experiment.
- This method effectively initiates a regenerative response for analysis.
Conclusions:
- Laser axotomy using the MicroPoint system is an efficient and accessible method for studying neuronal regeneration in C. elegans.
- This protocol can accelerate the identification of genes and pathways involved in neuronal repair.
- The described technique is suitable for high-throughput analysis of regeneration processes.
