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Updated: Jun 27, 2026

In vivo Imaging of the Mouse Spinal Cord Using Two-photon Microscopy
Published on: January 5, 2012
In vivo two-photon microscopy for studies of neurovascular coupling in rodents: a beginner's guide
Barbara Lykke Lind1, Krzysztof Kucharz1, Changsi Cai1
1University of Copenhagen, Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Science, Copenhagen, Denmark.
Abstract:
Neurovascular coupling (NVC) ensures the precise delivery of blood to active brain regions and is vital for maintaining cerebral homeostasis. To investigate the dynamic complexity of NVC in vivo, two-photon microscopy (TPM) provides excellent spatial and temporal resolution, enabling detailed visualization of cell-specific interactions and signaling mechanisms in the intact rodent brain. This review details the application of TPM in vascular imaging. We describe surgical preparations and discuss methodological considerations crucial for differentiating vessel types and accurately capturing neurovascular dynamics. Furthermore, we discuss the integration of TPM with genetically encoded fluorescent indicators that promise further advances in elucidating NVC mechanisms in health and disease. Finally, we highlight the recent advances in cutting-edge imaging technologies, which are poised to drive future discoveries in cerebrovascular physiology and pathology.
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