Investigating Retinal Circuits and Molecular Localization by Pre-Embedding Immunoelectron Microscopy

Summary

This protocol outlines the detailed steps of pre-embedding immunoelectron microscopy, with a focus on exploring synaptic circuits and protein localization in the retina.

Abstract

The retina comprises numerous cells forming diverse neuronal circuits, which constitute the first stage of the visual pathway. Each circuit is characterized by unique features and distinct neurotransmitters, determining its role and functional significance. Given the intricate cell types within its structure, the complexity of neuronal circuits in the retina poses challenges for exploration. To better investigate retinal circuits and cross-talk, such as the link between cone and rod pathways, and precise molecular localization (neurotransmitters or neuropeptides), such as the presence of substance P-like immunoreactivity in the mouse retina, we employed a pre-embedding immunoelectron microscopy (immuno-EM) method to explore synaptic connections and organization. This approach enables us to pinpoint specific intercellular synaptic connections and precise molecular localization and could play a guiding role in exploring its function. This article describes the protocol, reagents used, and detailed steps, including (1) retina fixation preparation, (2) pre-embedding immunostaining, and (3) post-fixation and embedding.

Introduction

The complexity of neuronal circuits in the retina presents challenges for exploration, considering the diverse cell types within its structure^1,2. The initial step involves identifying synaptic connections between different cells and determining the cellular localization of specific neurotransmitters or neuropeptides. As molecular biology advances introduce new proteins, precise localization in the retina becomes crucial for understanding their functions and analyzing retinal circuits and synaptic connections^3,4,5.

Protocol

The care and handling of animals were approved by the Regulation of the Ethics Committee of Wenzhou Medical University in accordance with the ARVO guidelines. Adult mice (C57BL/6J, male and female, 8 to 12 weeks of age) were utilized in this research. The equipment and reagents needed for the study are listed in the Table of Materials.

1. Preparation for retina fixation

1. Assemble the following materials and tools: a dissecting microscope, two forcep.......

Discussion

This article has described three critical steps for the successful observation of synaptic circuits and protein localization: (1) quick and weak fixation, (2) pre-embedding immunostaining, and (3) post-fixation and embedding.

We propose that fixation is the key step for a successful pre-embedding immuno-EM approach. Thus, the importance of fresh fixative and fast fixation is emphasized here, naming this principle the "4F principle," which is crucial in tissue preparation. However, achi.......

Materials

Name	Company	Catalog Number	Comments
1 mL syringe needle	kangdelai
1% OsO4	Electron Microscopy Science	19100
2,2,2-Tribromoethanol	Sigma-Aldrich	T48402
8% Glutaraldehyde	Electron Microscopy Science	16020
8% Paraformaldehyde	Electron Microscopy Science	157-8
Acetone	Electron Microscopy Science	10000
Anti-rabbit PKC	Sigma-Aldrich	P4334
Anti-Rabbit SP	Abcam	ab67006
DAB Substrate kit	MXB Biotechnologies	KIT-9701/9702/9703
Elbow scissors	Suzhou66 vision company	54010
Electron microscope	Phillips	CM120
Epon resin	Electron Microscopy Science	14910
forcep	Suzhou66 vision company	S101A
Millipore filter paper	Merck Millipore	PR05538
Na2HPO4· 12H2O	Sigma	71650	A component of phosphate buffer
NaH2PO4· H2O	Sigma	71507	A component of phosphate buffer
Picric acid	Electron Microscopy Science	19550
Sodium borohydride (NaBH4)	Sigma	215511
Tris	Solarbio	917R071
Ultramicrotome	Leica
Uranyl acetate	Electron Microscopy Science	22400
VACTASTAIN ABC kit, Peroxidase (Rabbit IgG)	Vector Laboratories	PK-4001