Xenopus cell-free extracts and their applications in cell biology study

Abstract

Xenopus has proven to be a remarkably versatile model organism in the realm of biological research for numerous years, owing to its straightforward maintenance in laboratory settings and its abundant provision of ample-sized oocytes, eggs, and embryos. The cell cycle of these oocytes, eggs, and early embryos exhibits synchrony, and extracts derived from these cells serve various research purposes. Many fundamental concepts in biochemistry, cell biology, and development have been elucidated through the use of cell-free extracts derived from Xenopus cells. Over the past few decades, a wide array of cell-free extracts has been prepared from oocytes, eggs, and early embryos of different Xenopus species at varying cell cycle stages. Each of these extracts possesses distinct characteristics. This review provides a concise overview of the Xenopus species employed in laboratory research, the diverse types of cell-free extracts available, and their respective properties. Furthermore, this review delves into the extensive investigation of spindle assembly in Xenopus egg extracts, underscoring the versatility and potency of these cell-free systems in the realm of cell biology.

Graphical abstract

Keywords

Xenopus / Cell-free extract / Oocyte / Egg / Embryo / Meiosis / Mitosis / Spindle

Acknowledgements

We thank other members of our laboratories for their constructive suggestions. This work was supported by a grant from NIH to J.L (1 SC3 GM132056) and by grants from National Natural Science Foundation of China to CMZ (32130026 and 92254305).

RIGHTS & PERMISSIONS

2023 The Author(s)