Fate maps of the zebrafish embryo

Abstract

In the past few years, we have seen a surge of interest in the zebrafish as a model system for the study of embryonic induction and patterning. This review summarizes our current knowledge of the organization of zebrafish fate maps during early development. Recent advances have addressed the relationship between early cleavage planes and the future dorsal axis, the pattern of cell mixing during blastula and gastrula stages, and the morphogenesis of the trunk neural keel. In addition, refined fate maps have become available for the embryonic shield, the central nervous system, and the heart. In combination with recent advances in molecular and genetic manipulations, these fate maps set the stage for new, more incisive, experimental approaches.