Fluorescent function-spacer-lipid construct labelling allows for real-time in vivo imaging of cell migration and behaviour in zebrafish (Danio rerio)

J Fluoresc. 2012 Jul;22(4):1055-63. doi: 10.1007/s10895-012-1043-3. Epub 2012 Mar 22.

Abstract

Real-time in vivo imaging of cell migration and behavior has advanced our understanding of physiological processes in situ, especially in the field of immunology. We carried out the transplantation of a mixed population of blood cells from adult zebrafish (Danio rerio) to 2 day old embryos. The blood cells were treated ex vivo with Function-Spacer-Lipid constructs (FSL) incorporating either fluorescein or Atto488 fluorophores (FSL-FLRO4-I or -II). Excellent labeling efficiency was demonstrated by epifluorescence microscopy and FACScan analysis. Real-time video imaging of the recipient fish showed that the functionality of these cells was retained and not affected by the labeling. The usefulness of FSL-FLRO4-I as a contrast agent in microangiography was explored. Overall, we found both FSL-FLRO4-I and-II promising labeling dyes for real-time in vivo imaging in zebrafish.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Blood Cells / cytology
  • Cell Movement*
  • Fluorescein / chemistry
  • Fluorescein / metabolism
  • Fluorescent Dyes / chemistry*
  • Fluorescent Dyes / metabolism*
  • Lipids / chemistry*
  • Microscopy, Fluorescence
  • Molecular Imaging / methods*
  • Neovascularization, Physiologic
  • Time Factors
  • Transplants
  • Zebrafish* / physiology

Substances

  • Fluorescent Dyes
  • Lipids
  • Fluorescein