Using a Scientifica Multiphoton Microscope for In Vivo Imaging of the Murine Subventricular Zone
Congratulations to the lab of Adam Packer, who published their first three-photon paper in collaboration with the lab of Chris Xu at Cornell University. This exciting data was collected using a Scientifica multiphoton microscope, and a laser source from APE and Amplitude.
Adam Packer's lab uses pioneering optical techniques to interrogate neural circuits and coding principles both in vitro and in vivo.
About the Study
Abstract
The mouse subventricular zone (SVZ) produces neurons throughout life. It is useful for mechanism discovery and is relevant for regeneration. However, the SVZ is deep, significantly restricting live imaging since current methods do not extend beyond a few hundred microns. We developed and adapted three-photon microscopy (3PM) for non-invasive deep brain imaging in live mice, but its utility in imaging the SVZ niche was unknown. Here, with fluorescent dyes and genetic labeling, we show successful 3PM imaging in the whole SVZ, extending to a maximum depth of 1.5 mm ventral to the dura mater. 3PM imaging distinguished multiple SVZ cell types in postnatal and juvenile mice. We also detected fine processes on neural stem cells interacting with the vasculature. Previous live imaging removed overlying cortical tissue or lowered lenses into the brain, which could cause inflammation and alter neurogenesis. We found that neither astrocytes nor microglia become activated in the SVZ, suggesting 3PM does not induce major damage in the niche. Thus, we show for the first time 3PM imaging of the SVZ in live mice. This strategy could be useful for intravital visualization of cell dynamics, molecular, and pathological perturbation and regenerative events.
Learn More
Scientifica's own Research & Development Manager, Christian Wilms, was part of this study's scientific discussion.
Scientifica VivoScope
The VivoScope is a slimline upright microscope. When combined with a multiphoton scan head, it forms the foundation of the finest in vivo imaging system for two-photon behavioural studies. The VivoScope is ideal for larger in vivo samples, linear or spherical treadmills, large stereotaxic frames or other virtual reality set-ups. The extended position of the scan head gives more room between the light path on your sample and the microscope frame.
Paper Reference
Sun, B., Wang, M., Hoerder-Suabedissen, A., Xu, C., Packer, A., & Szele, F. (2022). Intravital Imaging of the Murine Subventricular Zone with Three Photon Microscopy. Cerebral Cortex. https://doi.org/10.1093/cercor/bhab400
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