Pipeline for fluorescent imaging and volumetric analysis of neurons in cleared mouse spinal cords

Abstract

Summary: Precisely measuring the number and somatic volume of neurons in the central nervous system at single-cell resolution is technically challenging. Here, we combine multiple techniques to address this challenge in optically cleared mouse spinal cords. We describe in vivo neuron labeling approaches, tissue-clearing technology, light sheet fluorescence microscopy, and machine learning-guided imaging analysis. This combination provides a precise determination of the cell number and somatic volume of any neuron population in the spinal cords. : Publisher’s note: Undertaking any experimental protocol requires adherence to local institutional guidelines for laboratory safety and ethics.

Keywords

• Cell Biology
• Microscopy
• Neuroscience
• Molecular/Chemical Probes