Worm Microinjection is the process by which researchers can introduce foreign DNA
into the C.elegans genome. This is done by using a micro needle and injecting the
tissue which will be responsible for creating the worm's egg cells. At the point
where oocytes are just beginning their development, they share a common cytoplasmic
area throughout which a free exchange of substance can occur. As this is a period where
they have yet to form their own membrane, they are said to exist in a syncytium.
When the needle's contents (foreign DNA of the researcher's choosing) are dispelled,
they produce a wave which moves through the sex cell. Assuming an equal distribution,
this technique allows for an easy way to incorporate a chosen gene or set of genes
into the worm genome as each oocyte will take up the DNA. It is easy to see which
cells have effectively taken up the DNA through its expressed phenotype.
To view a video clip of a real worm microinjection
click here.
(*note:you need Quicktime to
view the movies which are courtesy
of the Goldstein Lab.
Upload may take a few minutes).
To learn more about the microinjection technique
click here.
references
1. Video of microinjection and link to additional information courtesy of
Dr. Bob Goldstein and the University of North Carolina and Arizona.
Bob Goldstein's lab is found at : http://www.bio.unc.edu/faculty/goldstein/lab/
The University of Arizona microinjection page is at : http://www.mcb.arizona.edu/wardlab/transformation.html