In Situ Hybridization: Fruit Fly Embryos and Tissues

Abstract

It is well known that transcript localization controls important biological processes, including cell fate determination, cell polarity, cell migration, morphogenesis, neuronal function, and embryonic axis specification. Thus, the sub-cellular visualization of transcripts in ‘their original place’ (in situ) is an important tool to infer and understand their trafficking, stability, translation, and biological functions. This has been made possible through the use of labeled ‘anti-sense’ probes that can be readily detected after hybridization to their ‘sense’ counterparts. The following is a series of protocols for conducting in situ hybridization in Drosophila (fruit fly) embryos or tissues. Probe-detection methods include a relatively simple alkaline phosphatase reaction, as well as higher-resolution and higher-throughput versions using fluorescence-conjugated tyramide labeling. New modifications that enhance probe penetration and detection in various tissues are also provided. © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.