Improved Semi-Micro Manipulator for Precise Injection into Mosquito Larvae.

摘要

A semi-micro manipulator for injection of test substances into the intestinal lumen of mosquito larvae via oral or anal openings was described by Misch and Anderson (1986) and used to evaluate the toxicity of spore preparations of Bacillus thuringiensis var, israelensis (Misch et al. 1987). Accurate delivery of a substance without damage to larvae is possible; however, the procedure generally requires a proficient technician with a great deal of experience. Through our experience with the semi-micro manipulator, two design efficiencies were notes. First, the apparatus lacked a stable base for lateral movement of pointer, making guidance and alignment of the micropipet tip for insertion solely dependent on one's hand. Second, once the micropipet tip was positioned in a larval cavity, unwanted movement or backlash of the tip occured before injector apparatus could be secured. This paper describes improvements to the semi-micro manipulator that provide for easy alignment and positive securement. Keywords: Laboratory equipment; Reprints. (KT)