ATLAS: a rationally designed anterograde transsynaptic tracer.
Jacqueline F Rivera1, Haoyang Huang1,2, Weiguang Weng1
1Department of Biological Sciences, Dornsife College, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
Nature Methods
|May 1, 2025
Summary
Scientists developed ATLAS, a novel protein for anterograde transsynaptic tracing of neural circuits. This new tool maps neuronal connections forward from genetically defined cells, offering a non-toxic and activity-dependent method for studying brain circuitry.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Rabies virus enables retrograde neural circuit mapping from specific cells.
- A lack of comparable tools for anterograde tracing limits comprehensive circuit analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel method for anterograde transsynaptic tracing from genetically defined neurons.
- To create a tool that enables tracing neural connections in a forward direction.
Main Methods:
- Engineered a protein called ATLAS for anterograde tracing.
- ATLAS induces presynaptic release of a payload containing an antibody-like protein (AMPA.FingR) and a recombinase.
- Payload is endocytosed by postsynaptic cells, delivered to the nucleus, and activates a reporter via recombinase.
Main Results:
- ATLAS successfully mediated monosynaptic transneuronal tracing in mice.
- The tracing was strictly anterograde, synaptic, and non-toxic.
- ATLAS-mediated tracing demonstrated activity dependence, highlighting active circuits.
Conclusions:
- ATLAS provides a new, versatile tool for anterograde neural circuit tracing.
- The modular nature of ATLAS allows for independent modification and future development.
- This method enables the study of active neural circuits underlying specific behaviors.
Related Concept Videos
01:10Design Example: Measuring Distance Between Two Points with Obstructions
When measuring distances in areas with physical obstructions, such as a lake in a field, surveyors must employ techniques to calculate accurate lengths without direct line measurements. One effective method is the offset technique, which allows for precise distance estimation over inaccessible stretches.In this scenario, a surveyor must measure a side of an area that crosses a lake. Since the measuring tape cannot span the lake, the surveyor begins by establishing a baseline that aligns with...
01:25Design Example: Traverse Angle Computations
Traverse angle computations are a critical component of surveying, used to compute the internal angles within a closed traverse. A traverse consists of a series of connected lines forming a closed loop, often used for land boundary delineation or mapping. Calculating the internal angles ensures accuracy in the traverse geometry and is essential for checking survey data integrity.The process begins with known azimuths and bearings of the traverse sides. Internal angles at each vertex are...