Fluorescence microendoscopy for in vivo deep-brain imaging of neuronal circuits

Imaging neuronal activity in awake, behaving animals has become a groundbreaking method in neuroscience that has rapidly enhanced our understanding of how the brain works. In vivo microendoscopic imaging has enabled researchers to see inside the brains of experimental animals and thus has emerged as a technology fit to answer many experimental questions. By combining microendoscopy with cutting edge targeting strategies and sophisticated analysis tools, neuronal activity patterns that underlie changes in behavior and physiology can be identified. However, new users may find it challenging to understand the techniques and to leverage this technology to best suit their needs. Here we present a background and overview of the necessary components for performing in vivo optical calcium imaging and offer some detailed guidance for current recommended approaches.

Automated summary

Imaging neuronal activity in awake, behaving animals has rapidly enhanced our understanding of how the brain works, using in vivo microendoscopic imaging to see inside the brains of experimental animals, combining cutting edge targeting strategies and sophisticated analysis tools to identify neuronal activity patterns underlying changes in behavior and physiology. New users may find it challenging to understand the techniques and leverage this technology to best suit their needs.