Methods for Live Microscopy of Drosophila Spermatocytes (original) (raw)

eLS, 2001

Abstract

The fruitfly Drosophila melanogaster offers a rich and varied source of differentiated cell types. This and its exceptional experimental tractability make it well suited for cell cycle or other developmental biology investigations. In particular, the sperm-producing cells of the testes provide a powerful system for studying the mechanics of cell division. These meiotically dividing primary spermatocytes can be easily isolated from the testes of mutant or transgenic animals and maintained in short-term primary cultures. The cells' large and flat geometry makes them amenable to a variety of live cell light-microscopy-based observation methods. Single-plane transmitted light time-lapse imaging and more advanced multi-dimensional widefield or confocal fluorescence microscopy have been used to define the morphological and kinetic changes that accompany processes ranging from meiotic chromosome segregation to microtubule dynamics. The ability to document such dynamic changes underscores the power of live cell imaging in understanding cell physiology and function. Key Concepts Drosophila is an experimentally tractable source of different cell types. Male meiotic primary spermatocytes provide a powerful model system for studying cell division. These large flat cells are easily cultured for live cell light microscopy. Transmitted light and fluorescence imaging methods can be used separately or in tandem to record different dynamic processes during cell division. Keywords: live cell imaging; mitosis; meiosis; light microscopy; fluorescent protein

Matthew Savoian hasn't uploaded this paper.

Let Matthew know you want this paper to be uploaded.

Ask for this paper to be uploaded.