Wavelength-dependent optoacoustic imaging probes for NMDA receptor visualisation.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biomedical Imaging
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) play crucial roles in synaptic plasticity and neurotransmission.
• Developing specific probes for NMDARs is essential for understanding neurological functions and diseases.
• Near-infrared (NIR) imaging offers advantages for deep tissue penetration and reduced autofluorescence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the cellular localization and binding specificity of two novel NMDAR-targeted NIR imaging probes.
• To demonstrate the utility of these probes in monitoring simulated glutamate bursts using multispectral optoacoustic tomography (MSOT).
• To conduct a preliminary in vivo study in mice to observe probe signal in the brain.

Main Methods:

• Microscopy techniques were employed to determine probe localization within cells.
• Binding specificity was assessed through cellular assays.
• Multispectral optoacoustic tomography (MSOT) was used to visualize probe signal changes.
• In cellulo experiments simulated glutamate bursts to mimic physiological conditions.
• A preliminary in vivo study was performed in mice.

Main Results:

• The two NIR probes exhibited specific cellular localization and binding to NMDARs.
• MSOT successfully monitored simulated glutamate bursts in cellulo, indicating probe responsiveness.
• Preliminary in vivo imaging in mice showed detectable probe signals within the brain.

Conclusions:

• The developed NMDAR-targeted NIR probes are suitable for cellular localization and possess specific binding capabilities.
• MSOT is a viable technique for utilizing these probes to monitor dynamic NMDAR activity.
• These probes show promise for in vivo brain imaging and studying NMDAR function in neurological contexts.