Instrumentation for microinjection and mainteance of experimental organisms

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The instrumentation requested in this application will be used primarily for microinjection of experimental organisms, including embryos, and for maintenance of these organisms under highly controlled conditions either prior to or after injection. The equipment will contribute to characterization of DNA, RNA and protein in organisms during normal growth and development or when exposed to environmental and physiological stress, including disease. The needs of several researchers in addition to the two noted in the application will be met by the equipment. Dr. MacRae will analyze gene expression during embryo development and diapause with emphasis on the regulaton of protein synthesis and function, and the contribution of molecular chaperones to the tolerance of physiological stress. Dr. Wright will study mechanistic aspects and evolution of intracellular lipid-binding protein (ILBP) gene transcription in zebrafish. These studies represent fundamental contributions to cell, molecular and developmental biology, and there are also many applications of the work. As examples, Dr. MacRae's research relates to heart attack and stroke, to cataract, and possibly to neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's. Examination of diapause, a physiological state common to insects, may reveal how these organisms resist stress, this of importance in agriculture and forestry where insects are often pests. A greater understanding of diapause will also enhance the use of Artemia as feed in aquaculture. Understanding transcription and gene regulation during zebrafish embryo development will generate fundamental information of importance in understanding regulation of cell growth. Clearly, there is potential to make discoveries which have direct consequences to health and commerce through use of the microinjector and growth chamber sought in this application. The equipment will also facilitate experiments addressing basic questions which are the cornerstone of many research programs, thus placing the applicants and their associates at a definite advantage in the effective use of grant funds and in the ability to conduct modern experimentation in several biological disciplines.