The contribution of neural crest cells to adult structures of zebrafish

Neural crest cells give rise to multiple cell types of the integument of the zebrafish larva such as cranial cartilage, pigment cells, and glia surrounding the lateral line nerve. However, the contribution of neural crest derived cells to adult integumentary organs is largely unknown. Variation in structures thought to be formed from neural crest cells contributes to a large amount of the diversification seen in vertebrates forms, such as pigment patterns and the jaw and teeth. The exoskeletal integumentary structures, such as fins and scales in the fish, have long been speculated to have contribution of neural crest origin, however data supporting this hypothesis are lacking. The zebrafish is a perfect model to address this issue with use of transgenic labelling technologies in a basal vertebrate. We are establishing transgenic methods to allow long term labelling of cells during the development of the fish until adulthood. By these means, we hope to be able to trace the derivatives of neural crest cells during long developmental times and address their contribution to adult structures.

Scientist involved:

• Yi-Yen Chen (PhD student)