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Updated: Aug 12, 2026

Functional Calcium Imaging in Developing Cortical Networks
Published on: October 22, 2011
Calcium imaging with chemiluminescence
R Créton1, J A Kreiling, L F Jaffe
1Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, Massachusetts 02543, USA. rcreton@mbl.edu
Abstract:
This review updates the imaging of free cytosolic calcium with the chemiluminescent aequorins. Basic principles of chemiluminescence are discussed and the biochemistry of aequorins is briefly described. The review provides practical tips on handling and microinjecting aequorins and describes available ultra low light imaging systems. It is argued that aequorin-based calcium imaging is the method of choice for exploratory studies, since it is extremely sensitive, can detect a broad range of calcium concentrations, and allows for continuous recording during long periods of time. However, fluorescent methods are needed to attain high spatial resolution.

