Abstract:

Head-mounted miniscopes have allowed researchers to observe and correlate neuronal activity and behavior in freely moving animals, even in deeper regions of the brain. The achievable image quality of these recordings is severely limited, however, falling far behind traditional confocal or multiphoton microscopy.
We can overcome these limitations by supplementing imaging during behavior with subsequent confocal and Airyscan images taken in head-fixed animals. Initial epifluorescence imaging allows easy co-registration of head-fixed and freely moving imaging modalities. Fast functional imaging of GCaMP positive cells using multiplexed Airyscan detection enables the localization of previously observed signaling neurons with high resolution and sensitivity. Multicolor volumetric imaging allows us to map all labeled cells in the visible brain column and to determine, which of these neurons co-express secondary labels alongside GCaMP. Using the available excitation lasers and full spectral detection capabilities of the microscope, while compensating especially for chromatic aberrations induced by the GRIN lens, we can image a myriad of different fluorescent labels in any color of the visible spectrum without compromising the functional GCaMP recordings.
The additional spatial and multicolor information gained using this method offers both valuable context and improved spatial information of the neurons previously observed during behavior.

Presented by:  Nicolai T. Urban, Ph.D., Head of Light Microscopy, Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience

Abstract:

Learn how to overcome the typical imaging and analysis challenges in neuroscience research, with the ZEISS LSM 9 series and arivis. LSM Plus and Airyscan joint Deconvolution (jDCV) can enable you to reliably gather higher quality data from your confocal imaging, enhancing resolution and signal to noise (SNR). Explore how the automatic end-to-end pipelines and AI-driven image analysis by arivis allow you to push the boundaries of your research. Automatic Neuron Tracing allows you to adapt the methods and parameters to your specific microscopy modalities and datasets, thus helping you to get the most out of your valuable imaging data from every sample.

Presented by:  Kalliopi Arkoudi, Ph.D., Applications Development Engineer, ZEISS Microscopy

Abstract:
Recent breakthroughs in the use of CRISPR/Cas9 and other genetic modifying domains have revolutionized the way we develop treatments for rare neurological disorders. However, prior to applying these breakthroughs clinically, several major hurdles exist that must be addressed in pre-clinical studies. For many neurodevelopmental disorders and neurodegenerative diseases, accessing the affected cells in the brain remains a significant obstacle. The Fink lab has undertaken multiple approaches to address this problem. Specifically, we developed a novel AAV vector system to deliver CRISPR/dCas9 epigenetic editors to the brain as well as stem cell-mediated delivery platforms to secrete DNA-binding domains such as Zinc Fingers, for regulating gene expression in vivo. To assess global distribution and efficacy across the mouse brain, we utilize the ZEISS Axioscan high throughput slide scanner; enabling screening and consequently research progression to happen much quicker than previously possible. Brains of particular interest are then examined in 3D at high resolution for colocalization and subcellular expression using the Apotome on a ZEISS Axio Observer. Taken together these studies and approaches are helping to move these promising interventions down the translational pipeline toward treatment.

Presented by: Kyle Fink, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, University of California, Davis Medical Center

Abstract:  

To visualize the wide array of synapses in the mouse primary visual cortex, sample preparation, imaging, and imaging tools used are key factors. Using correlative array tomography, we are able to visualize and map thousands of synapses. Starting from tissue preparation, through antibody optimization, imaging with both wide field, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and finally the tools utilized to visualize the data, we can most accurately describe various synapses and receptors. This talk will walk through sample preparation through data analysis, and how correlative array tomography has allowed us to learn about synaptic connectivity, paying special attention to the use of ATLAS and how it allows for exceptional array ROI reproducibility.

Presented by:  Jenna Schardt, Research Associate III, Allen Institute for Brain Science

Abstract:

Learn how the arivis Scientific Imaging Platform easily tackles your demands  in neuroscience research with a new module that integrates two scientifically  published methods. The module allows you to adapt the methods and parameters  to your specific microscopy modalities and datasets, thus helping you to get the most  out of your valuable imaging data from every sample.

Presented by:  Christian Götze, CTO, arivis