Live Imaging of Golgi Outposts in Drosophila Dendritic Arbors

Neurons are polarized cells whose polarity and morphology rely on the robust localization of cellular organelles and cargo to axons or dendrites. Developing neurons require an active secretory pathway, which includes the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus, to supply membrane and proteins to growing dendrites and axons. In some neurons, a subset of the Golgi called Golgi "outposts" localize to dendrites and contribute to local secretory networks. The movement and positioning of Golgi outposts have been correlated with dendrite branch growth and stabilization as the dendritic arbor is established. Live imaging is essential to capture the dynamic nature of these organelles. Here we outline a protocol to image and quantify Golgi outposts in peripheral sensory neurons in live, intact Drosophila larvae.