Figure 5.

Microinjection of CRE sequence-containing plasmids as transcription factor decoys alter the morphology of regenerating motor neuron axons. The morphology of the axons was examined 1 week postinjury. Axons were visualized by injecting neurons with 2% rhodamine-dextran and photographed under UV epifluorescent illumination. (A and B) Representative pictures showing the morphology of the axon of a motor neuron injected with vehicle at two different magnifications. (C and D) Representative pictures showing the morphology of the axon of a motor neuron injected with the control plasmid lacking the CRE sequence at two different magnifications. (E and F) Representative pictures showing the morphology of the axon of a motor neuron injected with a TRE sequence-containing plasmid at two different magnifications. (G and H) Representative pictures showing the morphology of the axon of a motor neuron injected with the CRE sequence-containing plasmids at two different magnifications. Numerous collaterals can be seen emerging from the axon.