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A Practical Approach to Genetic Inducible Fate Mapping: A Visual Guide to Mark and Track Cells In Vivo
Published on: December 30, 2009
Fate mapping of the mouse midbrain-hindbrain constriction using a site-specific recombination system
D L Zinyk1, E H Mercer, E Harris
1Department of Molecular and Medical Genetics, University of Toronto, Canada.
Current Biology : CB
|June 23, 1998
Summary
New research reveals that cells from the mouse midbrain-hindbrain constriction are crucial for developing the medial cerebellum and colliculi. This study pioneers a new in vivo lineage-tracing method for mouse embryonic development.
Area of Science:
- Developmental biology
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
Background:
- The mouse midbrain-hindbrain constriction is vital for midbrain and cerebellum patterning.
- This region acts as an organizer, inducing development of these brain areas.
- Previous fate mapping in mice was limited by embryo inaccessibility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To map cell fate in the mouse midbrain-hindbrain constriction using a novel in vivo approach.
- To investigate the contribution of constriction cells to midbrain and hindbrain structures.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the Cre-loxP site-specific recombination system for in vivo lineage tracing.
- Applied this method to mouse embryos during embryonic days 9-12.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated that cells from the dorsal midbrain-hindbrain constriction contribute significantly to the medial cerebellum.
- Showed contribution to the colliculi from these same embryonic cells.
- Confirmed the feasibility of using recombinase-based systems for mouse lineage tracing.
Conclusions:
- The midbrain-hindbrain constriction is a key source of cells for medial cerebellum and colliculi development.
- Recombinase-based lineage tracing is an effective tool for studying mouse embryonic development.
