pan-ECM: live brain extracellular matrix imaging with protein-reactive dye

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biochemistry
• Cell Biology

Background:

• The brain extracellular matrix (ECM) is crucial for central nervous system (CNS) development, homeostasis, and disease.
• Live imaging of brain ECM structure offers native insights but has been limited by a lack of robust fluorescent labeling methods.

Approach:

• Developed a pan-extracellular matrix (ECM) method using a protein-reactive dye for comprehensive brain ECM labeling.
• Screened and delivered the dye to label the entire brain ECM network in live tissue.
• Enabled imaging of diverse ECM compartments, including interstitial matrix, basement membranes (BM), and perineuronal nets (PNNs).

Key Points:

• The pan-ECM method allows visualization of ECM structure and dynamics in native brain tissue.
• Successfully imaged ECM in various compartments and in pathological conditions like glioblastoma and stroke.
• Provides a new tool for studying the brain ECM's role in neurological health and disease.

Conclusions:

• The pan-ECM approach overcomes previous limitations in live brain ECM imaging.
• Enhances understanding of the complex brain ECM and its contribution to CNS function and dysfunction.
• Opens new avenues for investigating brain ECM remodeling in neurological disorders.