Injection of antibodies into grasshopper eggs as a method for studying embryonic development

Procedures are described for injecting antibodies into grasshopper eggs at stages prior to 50% of embryonic development. A microdispenser is used to permit the accurate delivery of small, predetermined volumes of antibody solution. Injected antibodies are taken up by the embryo and reach their appropriate binding sites within 1 hr of injection. Antibody complexes remain stable for at least 24 hr. The method provides a useful tool for investigating developmental processes during early insect embryogenesis.