Automated cell lineage tracing in Caenorhabditis elegans

• DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0511111103
• Publication Date: 2006-02-14T01:44:07Z
• Authors: Zhirong Bao; John I. Murray; Thomas Boyle; Siew Loon Ooi; Matthew J. Sandel; Robert H. Waterston
• Keywords: Lineage (genetic); Cell fate determination; Tracing

The invariant cell lineage and fate of Caenorhabditis elegans provide a unique opportunity to decode the molecular mechanisms animal development. To exploit this opportunity, we have developed system for automated tracing during C. embryogenesis, based on 3D, time-lapse imaging image analysis. Using ubiquitously expressed histone–GFP fusion protein label cells/nuclei confocal microscope, protocol captures embryogenesis at high spatial (31 planes 1 μm apart) temporal (every minute) resolution without apparent effects A set analysis algorithms then automatically recognizes cells each time point, tracks movements, divisions deaths over assigns identities canonical naming scheme. Starting from four-cell stage (or earlier), our software, named starrynite , can trace up 350-cell in 25 min desktop computer. few errors lineaging be corrected hours with graphic interface that allows easy navigation images reported tree. used characterize phenotypes genes and/or extended determine gene expression patterns living embryo single-cell level. We envision automation will make it practical systematically decipher developmental pathways encoded genome .