The aim of this research is to characterize the proliferation and differentiation behaviour of stem cells during embryogenesis using monoclonal antibodies. The research will utilize the interstitial cell system of hydrozoan planulae, the larval form of the phylum Cnidaria, in efforts to elucidate at the cellular level controlling factors which regulate stem cell commitment and differentiation during embryogenesis. Moloclonal antibodies specific for planular interstitial cells, their differentiative intermediates and their progeny will be identified. Dr. Hans Bode has a library of monoclonals specific for adult hydra cells, some of which label all the interstitial cells of hydra while others label specific I-cell lineages. Dr. Bode has agreed to supply these monoclonals to determine if they can serve as cell type specific markers for embryonic cells. If hydra monoclonals do not work, Dr. Martin will generate a library of planular monoclonals. Very little is known about how the spatial pattern of differentiated cells is established during embryogenesis and consequently maintained in the adult state. An important question in developmental biology is how cells become restricted to a specific pathway of differentiation. This research is part of a continuing plan to examine the processes involved in the commitment and differentiation of stem cells during embryogenesis.
