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Updated: Jul 12, 2026
07:55
In Vivo Calcium Imaging of Neuronal Ensembles in Networks of Primary Sensory Neurons in Intact Trigeminal Ganglia
Published on: August 1, 2025
Hemispherectomy-Based Optical Window for In Vivo Visualization of Trigeminal Ganglion Neurons in Mice
Ryotaro Iwamoto1,2,3, Ashley Matunis1,4, Emma Stacy1,4
1Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA.
Bio-Protocol
|July 10, 2026
Summary
Researchers developed a new surgical method for optical imaging of the trigeminal ganglion (TG) in mice. This technique allows detailed study of facial sensation and pain by enabling direct visualization of TG neurons.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Surgical Techniques
- Optical Imaging
Background:
- Functional imaging of cranial neural structures like the trigeminal ganglion (TG) is difficult due to limited optical access.
- The TG is crucial for relaying sensory information from the face, teeth, and oral cavity, but population-level studies are restricted.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel surgical procedure for an optical-window preparation enabling direct optical access to the mouse TG.
- To facilitate in vivo investigation of somatosensory processing and trigeminal circuit function.
Main Methods:
- A temporal craniotomy exposes the TG, followed by placement of a glass cuboid to stabilize the ganglion and minimize motion artifacts.
- This preparation maintains the cranial cavity as a closed compartment without perfusion, allowing for direct optical access.
Main Results:
- The described preparation enables reliable visualization and recording of individual TG neurons using calcium imaging.
- It provides a large field of view of the entire TG, supporting in vivo imaging with standard fluorescence microscopy.
Conclusions:
- This technique offers a practical platform for mapping peripheral sensory representations within the TG.
- It is valuable for studying mechanisms of dental sensation, orofacial pain, and trigeminal nerve function.
