Lighting Up Neural Circuits by Viral Tracing

Neurons are highly interwoven to form intricate neural circuits that underlie the diverse functions of the brain. Dissecting the anatomical organization of neural circuits is key to deciphering how the brain processes information, produces thoughts, and instructs behaviors. Over the past decades, recombinant viral vectors have become the most commonly used tracing tools to define circuit architecture. In this review, we introduce the current categories of viral tools and their proper application in circuit tracing. We further discuss some advances in viral tracing strategy and prospective innovations of viral tools for future study.

Automated summary

The anatomical organization of neural circuits is essential for understanding brain functions, and viral tools have become widely used for tracing circuit architecture. This review introduces the categories and applications of viral tools in circuit tracing, as well as discussing advancements and future innovations in viral tracing.