A microfluidic array for large-scale ordering and orientation of embryos

Quantitative studies of embryogenesis require the ability to monitor pattern formation and morphogenesis in large numbers of embryos, at multiple time points, and in diverse genetic backgrounds. We describe a simple approach that greatly facilitates these tasks for Drosophila melanogaster embryos, one of the most advanced models of developmental genetics. Based on passive hydrodynamics, we developed a microfluidic embryo trap array that rapidly orders and vertically orients hundreds of embryos. We describe the physical principles of the design and use this platform for the quantitative analysis of multiple morphogen gradients in the dorsoventral patterning system. Our approach can also be used for live imaging, and, with slight modifications, could be adapted for studies of pattern formation and morphogenesis in other model organisms.