Time-Lapse Imaging of Cortical Neuron Radial Migration in Transduced Mouse Embryonic Brain Slices

Take a membrane insert containing transduced mouse embryonic organotypic brain slices, where neurons and radial glial cells express fluorescent proteins, enabling their visualization.

Using fluorescence microscopy, select a slice with fluorescent cortical neurons migrating radially towards the pial surface of the slice using intact radial glial scaffolds.

Transfer the membrane insert with the selected slice into a glass-bottom dish with media to support cellular activity during imaging.

Place the dish into the inverted confocal microscope’s climate-controlled chamber to ensure cell viability.

Adjust the imaging parameters to capture clear images while minimizing photodamage.

Next, configure a Z-stack in the targeted region to visualize cellular structures.

Initiate time-lapse imaging at regular intervals.

Analyze the images to assess the radial migration of the cortical neurons from the subventricular zone toward the cortical plate along radial glial scaffolds, highlighting neuronal migration patterns.