Vertebrate Embryology/Developmental Biology Laboratory Improvement

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This award provides funds to upgrade the Vertebrate Embryology (ZY 302) laboratory in the Department of Zoology and Wildlife Sciences at Auburn University. The money will be use to re- orient the course toward a more "developmental" approach to the subject of embryology. Specific experiments that consider gene activity and the differentiation of cells will be developed. Light and UV-epifluorescence microscopy will be used in conjunction with dissected and fixed tissues from different opisthobranch and insect embryonic and larval stages. These developmental stages will have been incubated with appropriate stains or fluor-labeled antibodies such that gene activation and cell differentiation can be demonstrated. Students will obtain first-hand experience with state-of-the-art microscopical equipment and histological and immunofluorescent techniques. Their experience will include consideration of monoclonal versus polyclonal antibodies for developmental immunohistochemistry and discussion of cellular mechanisms involved in differentiation. Laboratory reports characterized by an analysis of their photographed experimental results will enhance the student's understanding of the developmental phenomena considered. Choices of equipment for this project have been based on quality, cost, durability, and compatibility with existing equipment. It will be possible for the equipment to serve additional use in undergraduate Special Topics courses (ZY 498) related to Developmental Biology. The grantee is matching the award from non-Federal sources.