Quantitative Microinjection of Mouse Oocytes and Eggs

Quantitative microinjection is used to introduce known quantities of molecules or probes into single cells to examine cellular function. The relatively large mammalian oocyte or egg is easily manipulated and can be injected with impermeant reagents including a variety of signaling molecules and fluorescent probes. Techniques have been developed to inject picoliter quantities of solution into oocytes and eggs with precision and reliability. The methods described here outline the quantitative injection procedures as they are used to inject mouse oocytes and eggs in a culture dish on the stage on an inverted microscope. The techniques are applicable to the oocytes, eggs, and early embryos of most mammalian species. Included are some general instructions on fabrication of transfer pipettes, holding pipettes, beveled injection pipettes, and equipment for quantitative injection.