Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 28, 2026
In Situ Ca2+ Imaging of the Enteric Nervous System
Published on: January 29, 2015
Fast calcium and voltage-sensitive dye imaging in enteric neurones reveal calcium peaks associated with single action
K Michel1, M Michaelis, G Mazzuoli
1Human Biology, Technische Universität München, Freising, Germany.
Abstract:
Slow changes in [Ca(2+)](i) reflect increased neuronal activity. Our study demonstrates that single-trial fast [Ca(2+)](i) imaging (≥200 Hz sampling rate) revealed peaks each of which are associated with single spike discharge recorded by consecutive voltage-sensitive dye (VSD) imaging in enteric neurones and nerve fibres. Fast [Ca(2+)](i) imaging also revealed subthreshold fast excitatory postsynaptic potentials. Nicotine-evoked [Ca(2+)](i) peaks were reduced by -conotoxin and blocked by ruthenium red or tetrodotoxin. Fast [Ca(2+)](i) imaging can be used to directly record single action potentials in enteric neurones. [Ca(2+)](i) peaks required opening of voltage-gated sodium and calcium channels as well as Ca(2+) release from intracellular stores.
