In vitro primary spreading and dissociation of zebrafish, Brachydanio rerio, blastoderm-derived embryonic epidermis

Abstract

Blastoderm isolates from Brachydanio rerio (Teleostei: Cyprinidae) blastulas were maintained in nutrient medium for up to 40 days. Of 120 blastoderm isolates cultured 75% showed initial attachment and underwent major changes in adhesive properties affecting aggregative and locomotory behaviour. Of the attached blastoderm isolates, 70% differentiated into embryos of varying degrees of organization and all exhibited subsequent primary membrane formation and spreading. The paper, covering the first 18 days of culture, focuses on the phenomenon of primary membrane spread formation, dissociation, and its associated cell types. A discussion of the relevant literature is provided.