Protocol to study early lung developmental branching in mouse embryos using explant culture

Abstract

<p>Mouse lung branching morphogenesis creates epithelial tree structures required for respiration. Here, we present a protocol for studying mouse lung developmental branching using lung explant cultures. We describe steps for isolating lungs with a video at embryonic day 12.5 (E12.5) and culturing as an explant for 2 days. We also detail procedures for microscopic imaging on days 0–2 and analysis of peripheral lung buds. This technique has the potential to investigate lung development in various conditions. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Talvi et al.1</p>