Photo-transformable genetically-encoded optical probes for functional highlighting in vivo.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cell Biology
• Optical Imaging

Background:

• Understanding brain structure (connectome) and function of neurons and glia is crucial.
• Advancements in optical techniques and genetically encoded fluorescent tools (like GFP) enable remote cell examination.
• Early cell-staining techniques visualized neurons in fixed tissues, while modern methods allow live-cell imaging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review photo-transformable genetically encoded probes for studying neurons.
• To highlight the utility of probes whose light emission is modified by light (photoactivation, photoconversion, photoswitching).
• To demonstrate the suitability of these probes for simultaneous analysis of neuronal structure, connectivity, and function in vivo.

Main Methods:

• Focus on a subset of optical biosensors: photo-transformable genetically encoded probes.
• Discussion of probes exhibiting photoactivation (PA), photoconversion (PC), and photoswitching (PS).
• Review of applications for in vivo functional highlighting of neurons.

Main Results:

• Photo-transformable probes offer novel ways to visualize and study neuronal properties.
• These probes facilitate the simultaneous investigation of multiple neuronal features.
• Successful application in live imaging, including in vivo studies, is enabled by these tools.

Conclusions:

• Photo-transformable genetically encoded probes are powerful tools for neuroscience research.
• They enable concurrent study of neuronal structure, connectivity, and function.
• These probes are particularly valuable for in vivo functional imaging of neurons.