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Versatile live-cell activity analysis platform for characterization of neuronal dynamics at single-cell and network
Xinyue Yuan1, Manuel Schröter2, Marie Engelene J Obien2,3
1Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland. xinyue.yuan@bsse.ethz.ch.
Nature Communications
|September 26, 2020
Summary
Researchers developed a novel label-free platform for long-term electrophysiological imaging of neuronal networks. This technology overcomes phototoxicity issues, enabling detailed analysis of neuronal dynamics and axonal properties over extended periods.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biotechnology
- Electrophysiology
Background:
- Chronic in vitro imaging is crucial for understanding neuronal function.
- Current optical methods face limitations due to phototoxicity and restricted recording durations.
- A need exists for advanced techniques enabling long-term, label-free neuronal network analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- Introduce a versatile platform for label-free, electrophysiological live-cell imaging.
- Enable comprehensive and detailed recordings of neurogenic cells and tissues over extended time scales.
- Overcome limitations of current imaging methods, particularly phototoxicity.
Main Methods:
- Development of a dual-mode high-density microelectrode array (19,584 recording sites).
- Simultaneous recording capabilities in full-frame and high-signal-to-noise (246 channels) modes.
- Application to primary and iPSC-derived neuronal cultures and tissue preparations for several weeks.
Main Results:
- Demonstration of detailed morpho-electrical phenotypic parameters at subcellular, cellular, and network levels.
- Successful long-term recordings (several weeks) from various neuronal preparations.
- Development of analysis tools for high-throughput inference of axonal morphology and conduction speed.
Conclusions:
- The novel platform facilitates unprecedented long-term, label-free electrophysiological imaging of neuronal networks.
- This technology provides detailed insights into neuronal dynamics and axonal properties.
- The developed system and analysis tools significantly advance in vitro neuroscience research.
