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Targeted Labeling of Neurons in a Specific Functional Micro-domain of the Neocortex by Combining Intrinsic Signal and Two-photon Imaging
Published on: December 12, 2012
Two-dimensional surface plasmon resonance imager: An approach to study neuronal differentiation
Tanveer Ahamd Mir1, Hiroaki Shinohara
1Biological Information Systems Science, Graduate School of Innovative Life Science for Education, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-8555, Japan.
A novel bioanalytical technique using high-resolution two-dimensional surface plasmon resonance (2D-SPR) imaging enables noninvasive, real-time monitoring of neuronal differentiation. This label-free method tracks intracellular signaling, specifically protein kinase C (PKC) translocation, in living cells.
Area of Science:
- Bioanalytical Chemistry
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Developing noninvasive, real-time bioanalytical techniques for monitoring neuronal differentiation is crucial.
- Previous work showed two-dimensional surface plasmon resonance (2D-SPR) imager utility in monitoring cell responses related to protein kinase C (PKC) translocation.
- A label-free approach is desired for in situ cellular analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel method for monitoring neuronal differentiation using a high-resolution 2D-SPR imager.
- To assess the applicability of 2D-SPR for label-free, noninvasive monitoring of neuronal differentiation.
- To investigate intracellular signal transduction pathways during neuronal differentiation.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a high-resolution two-dimensional surface plasmon resonance (2D-SPR) imager.
- Employed PC12 cells as a model system for neuronal differentiation.
- Stimulated cells with differentiation factors like nerve growth factor (NGF) and neurotransmitters (muscarine, carbachol, acetylcholine).
- Monitored intracellular signal transduction, specifically PKC translocation, in real-time and label-free.
Main Results:
- Successfully monitored intracellular signal transduction, primarily PKC translocation, in PC12 cells using 2D-SPR.
- Observed a significant enhancement in 2D-SPR response to muscarine, carbachol, and acetylcholine stimulation in NGF-treated cells.
- Demonstrated the label-free and noninvasive capabilities of 2D-SPR for monitoring cellular responses.
Conclusions:
- 2D-SPR sensing is a viable technique for in situ assessment of neuronal differentiation.
- The method allows for real-time study of the expression state of specific receptors in living cells.
- This label-free bioanalytical approach offers a promising alternative to traditional methods for studying neuronal development.

