Visualizing vascular networks in zebrafish: an introduction to microangiography

Visualizing the circulatory pattern in developing embryos becomes an essential technique for the field of cardiovascular biology. In the zebrafish model system, there are currently several techniques available to visualize the circulatory pattern. Microangiography is a simple technique in which a fluorescent dye is injected directly into the Sinus Venosus and/or the Posterior Cardinal Vein, allowing for the rapid labeling and easy detection of patent vessels. Here, we compare microangiography to other vascular labeling techniques, describe the benefits and potential applications of microangiography, and give step by step instructions for microangiography.