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Protocol for labeling and manipulating "home"-activated neurons in mice
Xiaoya Su1, Junyue He2, Yunlong Liu3
1Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing 100084, P.R. China; School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, P.R. China; McGovern Institute of Brain Research, Beijing 100084, P.R. China.
STAR Protocols
|March 23, 2025
Summary
This study details a method to identify and control brain cells activated by home cues in mice. This research helps understand how "home" environments influence behaviors like anxiety and fear.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Home-related cues, such as bedding, modulate affective behaviors in mice.
- These behaviors include fear relief, anxiety reduction, and defensive aggression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a protocol for labeling and manipulating "home"-activated neurons in the lateral hypothalamus (LH).
- To integrate neuronal targeting with behavioral assays for studying home-driven adaptations.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing a Tet-Off inducible system for neuronal manipulation.
- Employing virus injection and postoperative recovery techniques.
- Combining c-Fos-driven activity labeling with chemogenetics.
Main Results:
- The protocol enables specific labeling of "home"-activated neurons.
- It allows for the manipulation of these neurons' activity.
- This facilitates investigation into their functional role.
Conclusions:
- The presented protocol offers a method to study the neural basis of home-driven behavioral adaptations.
- It provides insights into how "home" environments influence affective states and behaviors in mice.
