In vivo whole-cell recording from morphologically identified mouse superior colliculus neurons.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cellular Neuroscience
• Systems Neuroscience

Background:

• In vivo whole-cell recording combined with biocytin labeling is crucial for studying neuronal function.
• Understanding subthreshold synaptic processing in identified neuronal populations is key to deciphering neural circuit function.
• The superior colliculus is a critical brain region for visual processing in rodents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a detailed protocol for performing in vivo whole-cell recordings in the rodent superior colliculus.
• To describe methods for morphological characterization of recorded neurons.
• To present techniques for visual stimulation during electrophysiological recordings.

Main Methods:

• In vivo whole-cell patch-clamp recordings were performed in the superior colliculus of urethane-anesthetized mice.
• Biocytin labeling was used for post-hoc morphological reconstruction of recorded neurons.
• Visual stimuli were delivered using light-emitting diode (LED) flashes and monitor-based displays.

Main Results:

• The protocol allows for stable recordings and subsequent cell-type identification.
• Subthreshold synaptic potentials could be effectively measured in response to visual stimuli.
• The method is adaptable for studying neuronal function in other brain regions.

Conclusions:

• This detailed protocol facilitates the study of subthreshold synaptic processing in cell-type-identified neurons.
• The described techniques are valuable for systems neuroscience research, particularly in visual processing.
• The methodology is broadly applicable to various brain regions and research questions.