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Updated: Mar 19, 2026
Revealing Neural Circuit Topography in Multi-Color
Published on: November 14, 2011
Enhancing Fluorogold-based neural tract tracing
S E Mondello1, S C Jefferson2, W A O'Steen3
1Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, United States.
Background:
Fluorogold (FG) is used by many groups to retrogradely trace nervous system pathways. Fluorogold, while a robust tracer, also is neurotoxic and causes tissue damage at the injection site and leads to motor deficits.
New Method:
In the current study, we describe a method for enhancing FG-uptake using Triton™ and an overall procedure for reducing FG-related tissue damage while still allowing effective quantification.
Results:
Triton™ decreases the amount of FG, as well as the time required for long-distance transport from the thoracic spinal cord to the motor cortex by >4 fold when this distance is >10in. Although small FG concentrations and injection volumes are ideal for minimizing associated tissue damage and motor deficits, they result in difficult-to-detect fluorescence. This can be solved using FG antiserum paired with an ABC chromogen reaction. This ABC chromogen reaction product can remain stable for at least 9 years.
Comparison With Existing Method(S):
This study is the first to collectively address FG-induced tissue damage and describe methods for minimizing this damage.
Conclusions:
Triton™ enhances the uptake of FG in the nervous system, reduces the FG required, and allows for a substantial decrease in tracing time that limits FG-induced motor deficits. Small FG concentration and volume decreases tissue damage but also decreases FG fluorescent detection. Detection challenges are resolved using FG anti-serum and chromogen reactions.
