Protocol for wide-field brainstem imaging largely preserving the overlying cerebellum

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cellular Biology
• Physiology

Background:

• The nucleus tractus solitarii (NTS) is a critical brainstem region integrating visceral sensory information.
• NTS neurons play key roles in regulating emotions and metabolism.
• Understanding NTS neuronal heterogeneity is essential for deciphering complex physiological processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a detailed experimental protocol for in vivo two-photon imaging of the NTS.
• To enable high-resolution recording of neural population activity in the NTS.
• To facilitate research into the functional diversity of NTS neurons.

Main Methods:

• Minimally invasive surgical procedures for cranial window implantation in mice.
• In vivo two-photon microscopy for neural imaging.
• Recording of cellular-resolution neural population activity in the NTS of anesthetized mice.

Main Results:

• Successful implementation of a step-by-step protocol for NTS imaging.
• Demonstration of cellular-level neural activity recording in the NTS.
• Establishment of a method to investigate NTS neuronal heterogeneity.

Conclusions:

• The described protocol provides a valuable tool for neuroscience research.
• This technique allows for detailed investigation of NTS neural circuits.
• Elucidation of NTS neuronal mechanisms can advance understanding of emotion and metabolism.