Ca(2+) dynamics in zebrafish morphogenesis

Intracellular calcium ion (Ca(2+)) signaling is heavily involved in development, as illustrated by the use of a number of Ca(2+) indicators. However, continuous Ca(2+) patterns during morphogenesis have not yet been studied using fluorescence resonance energy transfer to track the Ca(2+) sensor. In the present study, we monitored Ca(2+) levels during zebrafish morphogenesis and differentiation with yellow cameleon, YC2.12. Our results show not only clear changes in Ca(2+) levels but also continuous Ca(2+) patterns at 24 hpf and later periods for the first time. Serial Ca(2+)dynamics during early pharyngula period (Prim-5-20; 24–33 hpf) was successfully observed with cameleon, which have not reported anywhere yet. In fact, high Ca(2+) level occurred concurrently with hindbrain development in segmentation and pharyngula periods. Ca(2+) patterns in the late gastrula through segmentation periods which were obtained with cameleon, were similar to those obtained previously with other Ca(2+)sensor. Our results suggested that the use of various Ca(2+) sensors may lead to novel findings in studies of Ca(2+) dynamics. We hope that these results will prove valuable for further research in Ca(2+) signaling.