Analysis of cell migration using Caenorhabditis elegans as a model system.

Publication Year
2011

Type

Journal Article
Abstract
The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans is an excellent model system in which to study long-distance cell migration in vivo. This chapter describes methods used to study a subset of migratory cells in the hermaphrodite nematode, the distal tip cells. These methods take advantage of the organism's transparent body and the expression of green fluorescent protein to observe cell migration and behavior. Additionally, the availability of nematode mutants and gene knockdown techniques that affect cell migration allow the analysis and comparison of wild-type and aberrant migratory paths. Methods for nematode growth and maintenance, strain acquisition, observation and live imaging, gene knockdown, and analysis of cell migration defects are covered.
Journal
Methods Mol Biol
Volume
769
Pages
233-47
ISSN Number
1940-6029
Alternate Journal
Methods Mol. Biol.
PMID
21748680