Title
Electron microscopy of Drosophila larval neuromuscular junctions
GSBS Program
Neuroscience
UMMS Affiliation
Department of Neurobiology
Date
8-4-2010
Document Type
Article
Medical Subject Headings
Animals; Dissection; Drosophila; Larva; Microscopy, Electron; Muscles; Neuromuscular Junction
Disciplines
Life Sciences | Medicine and Health Sciences | Neuroscience and Neurobiology
Abstract
Over the last two decades, the Drosophila larval neuromuscular junction has gained immense popularity as a model system for the study of synaptic development, function, and plasticity. With this model, it is easy to visualize synapses and manipulate the system genetically with a high degree of temporal and spatial control, which makes it ideal for resolving problems in synaptic physiology and development. This article describes the preparation of Drosophila larval body-wall muscles for imaging by electron microscopy. The samples are fixed, stained, and embedded in Spurr’s resin before being sectioned for electron microscopy.
Rights and Permissions
Citation: Cold Spring Harb Protoc. 2010 Aug 1;2010(8):pdb.prot5474. doi: 10.1101/pdb.prot5474.