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Updated: Jun 10, 2025
09:30
Super-resolution Imaging of Neuronal Dense-core Vesicles
Published on: July 2, 2014
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Genetically-encoded markers for confocal visualization of single dense core vesicles.
Junwei Yu1,2, Yunpeng Zhang1,3,2, Kelsey Clements1
1Department of Biology, Volen National Center for Complex Systems, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA 02454-9110, USA.
Biorxiv : the Preprint Server for Biology
|October 17, 2024
Summary
Researchers developed new genetically-encoded markers to study neuronal dense core vesicles (DCVs). This allows for single-vesicle analysis using confocal microscopy, overcoming electron microscopy limitations.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Neuronal dense core vesicles (DCVs) are crucial for storing and releasing various neurochemicals.
- Analyzing individual DCVs is challenging with traditional electron microscopy, limiting understanding of cargo and heterogeneity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop novel tools for high-resolution analysis of single neuronal DCVs.
- To overcome limitations of electron microscopy in studying DCV cargo segregation and heterogeneity.
Main Methods:
- Development of genetically-encoded markers for DCVs.
- Application of these markers with immunohistochemistry and expansion microscopy.
- Utilizing confocal microscopy for single-vesicle resolution.
Main Results:
- Successful development of genetically-encoded markers for DCVs.
- Enabled single-vesicle resolution of DCVs using confocal microscopy.
- Provided a new method to study DCV heterogeneity and cargo.
Conclusions:
- Genetically-encoded markers offer a powerful approach for single-vesicle analysis of DCVs.
- This method enhances understanding of neuromodulator and trophic factor release.
- Advances the study of neuronal vesicle heterogeneity and function.
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