研究目的
To develop a protocol for in vivo two-photon imaging of cortical neurons in neonatal mice, enabling the observation of temporal changes of individual cortical neurites during neonatal stages with a high signal-to-noise ratio, and to facilitate labeled cell-specific gene silencing and knockout.
研究成果
The protocol allows the in vivo observation of individual neurons in neonatal brains with a high signal-to-noise ratio, facilitating the analysis of developmental dynamics of cortical neurons, molecular mechanisms controlling neuronal dynamics, and changes in neuronal dynamics in disease models. Future improvements in fluorescent probes, lasers, and detectors could enable deeper imaging in neonatal brains.
研究不足
Lower spatial and temporal resolution compared with imaging of transparent animals like zebrafish larvae and Xenopus tadpoles due to more light scattering in the mouse brain. The surgery for cranial window implantation may affect the formation of a normal cortical circuit due to brain inflammation. Repetitive exposure to isoflurane may affect several neuronal processes.