STAR Protocols (Sep 2023)

Protocol for observing microtubules and microtubule ends in both fixed and live primary microglia cells

  • Caterina Sanchini,
  • Maria Rosito,
  • Alessandro Comincini,
  • Simone De Panfilis,
  • Francesca Bartolini,
  • Silvia Di Angelantonio

Journal volume & issue
Vol. 4, no. 3
p. 102499

Abstract

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Summary: Microtubule dynamics and orientation have crucial roles in many vital cellular processes. However, functional live imaging of microtubules and/or microtubule ends in primary microglia can be challenging. Here, we present a protocol for observing microtubules and microtubule ends in both fixed and live primary microglia cells. We describe steps for microglia culture and in vitro stimulation, SiR-tubulin labeling, lentivirus preparation, live imaging, immunostaining, and image acquisition. We also provide procedures for SiR-tubulin, EB3-EGFP, and EB1 analyses.For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Rosito et al. (2023).1 : Publisher’s note: Undertaking any experimental protocol requires adherence to local institutional guidelines for laboratory safety and ethics.

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