Fate Mapping

Overview

Fate mapping is a technique used to understand how embryonic cells divide, differentiate, and migrate during development. In classic fate mapping experiments, cells in different areas of an embryo are labeled with a chemical dye and then tracked to determine which tissues or structures they form. Technological improvements now allow for individual cells to be marked and traced throughout embryonic development and adulthood.

This video reviews the concepts behind fate mapping, and then details a fate mapping protocol in zebrafish using photoactivatable fluorescent proteins. Finally, specific applications and modifications of this unique technique are discussed.

Procedure

Developmental biologists use fate mapping as a tool to trace cell lineages while an organism matures. This is done by labeling cells at an embryonic stage and then tracking them and their progeny throughout the organism's development. Fate mapping is also used to study cell migration and differentiation during development, as well as regeneration and repair during adulthood.

This video will provide an overview of fate mapping, explain a protocol used to generate a fate map in zebrafish, and show some ways in whic