Data
Gene expression on the images is indicated by a blue colour that is generated by the NBT/BCIP reaction product from the in situ hybridisation protocol. Sections have been counterstained with Neutral Fast Red to act as a contrast reagent and to better reveal tissue morphology. No manipulation of the images has been performed, and it is advised that for weakly expressing genes images are inspected at full resolution to see subtle expression. The database contains several types of data. The core Sanger project reflects gene expression patterns in representative sagittal sections of a range of post-gastrulae mouse embryos. A significant volume of data is also available under the EU Framework 6 that extends many datasets to examine the brain in more detail with additional stages and orientations For further details of the Eurexpress project please see eurexpress.
Embryonic stages and orientations:
| Embryonic Stage | Orientation | Slides | Sections |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10.5 (TS16/17) | Whole Embryo Sagittal | 1 | 24 |
| 12.5 (TS20) | Whole Embryo Sagittal | 2 | 24 |
| 14.5 (TS22) | Whole Embryo Sagittal | 2 | 20 |
In addition the Eurexpress dataset includes:
| Embryonic Stage | Orientation | Slides | Sections |
|---|---|---|---|
| 14.5 (TS22) | Head Sagittal | 2 | 30 |
| 14.5 (TS22) | Head Transverse | 2 | 28 |
| 12.5 (TS20) | Whole Embryo Frontal | 2 | 24 |
| 16.5 (TS25) | Head Sagittal | 3 | 36 |
| 16.5 (TS20) | Head Transverse | 2 | 24 |
At the end of this project, there have been more than 400 genes studied with close to 70,000 images being created (nearly 30TB). The genes studied include a variety of gene families such as semaphorins, plexins, eph receptors and ephrins; disease-related genes such as candidate mental retardation genes; and chromatin-associated proteins.
People
They key people associated with this project at the Sanger Institute are indicated below. While they have made a fantastic effort for such a small team, we must acknowledge the help of the Institute. In particular, we are greatly indebted to the animal house staff and systems support without which this project would not be possible. We also extend our gratitude to Duncan Davidson and Richard Baldock of the Mouse Atlas Group at the MRC Human Genetics Group, Edinburgh for their continued support and enthusiasm for our work.- Dongrong Chen Senior Research Associate
- Diane Gleeson Research Assistant
- Elizabeth Huckle Advanced Research Assistant
- Anja-Kolb Kokocinksi Senior Research Associate (Eurexpress)
- David Tannahill Faculty