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Protocol for observing tunneling nanotube formation and function in both fixed and live primary mouse neurons and
Vivian Baker1, Dimitri Budinger1, Sean-Patrick Riechers1
1Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, 6 Avenue du Swing, 4367 Esch-Belval, Luxembourg.
Abstract:
Microglia and neurons can connect via tunneling nanotubes (TNTs), facilitating the transfer of organelles, vesicles, and proteins. Here, we present a protocol for visualizing murine TNT formation and material transfer between neurons and microglia in both fixed samples and samples for live-cell imaging, as well as for flow cytometry. We describe steps for identifying and measuring TNTs and quantifying the transport of aggregated proteins, such as α-synuclein or tau, between these cells. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Scheiblich et al.1.
