Single and multiplexed fluorescent in situ hybridization using quantum dots nanocrystals in Xenopus

Abstract

The photostability and narrow emission spectra of quantum dots (QDs) make them ideal candidates for whole-mount fluorescent in situ hybridization. Here we describe a method for non-amplified, single and multiplexed whole-mount fluorescent ISH in Xenopus laevis embryos using far red and near infrared (NIR) quantum dot nanocrystals. Our results demonstrate that QD detection of endogenous messenger RNA is effective even in highly autofluorescent organisms such as Xenopus and therefore holds promise for use in many other model organisms.