110 μmthin endo-microscope for deep-brain in vivo observations of neuronal connectivity, activity and blood flow dynamics

in: Nature Communications (2023)
Stiburek, Miroslav; Ondrackova, Petra; Tuckova, Tereza; Turtaev, Sergey; Siler, Martin; Pikálek, Tomáš; Jákl, Petr ; Gomes, André D.; Krejčí, Jana; Kolbábková, Petra; Uhlirova, Hana; Čižmár, Tomáš
Light-based in-vivo brain imaging relies on light transport over large distances of highly scattering tissues. Scattering gradually reduces imaging contrast and resolution, making it difficult to reach structures at greater depths even with the use of multiphoton techniques. To reach deeper,minimally invasive endomicroscopy techniques have been established. These most commonly exploit graded-index rod lenses and enable a variety of modalities in head-fixed and freely moving animals. A recently proposed alternative is the use of holographic control of light transport throughmultimode optical fibres promising much less traumatic application and superior imaging performance. We present a 110 ìm thin laser-scanning endo-microscope based on this prospect, enabling in-vivo volumetric imaging throughout the whole depth of themouse brain. The instrument is equipped withmulti-wavelength detection and threedimensional random access options, and it performs at lateral resolution below 1 ìm. We showcase various modes of its application through the observations of fluorescently labelled neurones, their processes and blood vessels. Finally, we demonstrate how to exploit the instrument to monitor calcium signalling of neurones and to measure blood flow velocity in individual vessels at high speeds.

Third party cookies & scripts

This site uses cookies. For optimal performance, smooth social media and promotional use, it is recommended that you agree to third party cookies and scripts. This may involve sharing information about your use of the third-party social media, advertising and analytics website.
For more information, see privacy policy and imprint.
Which cookies & scripts and the associated processing of your personal data do you agree with?

You can change your preferences anytime by visiting privacy policy.