Molecular toolbox
Many of the tools of modern molecular biology are available in Aiptasia. For example, a reference genome and various transcriptomes have been produced, so genes of interest can be studied and cloned. Antibodies can be raised to be used in immunohistochemistry to localize proteins in situ, or for protein pulldown and biochemistry experiments, while in situ RNA hybridization can be used to visualize gene expression patterns.
To enable detailed dissections of the functions of individual genes, we are working to establish tools for manipulating gene expression in vivo. Taking advantage of our regular access to Aiptasia gametes, we have established a protocol for the microinjection of Aiptasia zygotes. This allows us to overexpress or
