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Published November 2001 | public
Journal Article

The neuronal naturalist: watching neurons in their native habitat

Abstract

Dynamic processes of neural development, such as migrations of precursor cells, growth of axons and dendrites, and formation and modification of synapses, can be fully analyzed only with techniques that monitor changes over time. Although there has been long-standing motivation for following cellular and synaptic events in vivo (intravital microscopy), until recently few preparations have been studied, and then often only with great effort. Innovations in low-light and laser-scanning microscopies, coupled with developments of new dyes and of genetically encoded indicators, have increased both the breadth and depth of in situ imaging approaches. Here we present the motivations and challenges for dynamic imaging methods, offer some illustrative examples and point to future opportunities with emerging technologies.

Additional Information

© 2001 Nature Publishing Group. Received 14 August; Accepted 13 September 2001.

Additional details

Created:
August 19, 2023
Modified:
October 23, 2023