Name: cortex-, hippocampus-, thalamus-, hypothalamus-, lateral septal nucleus- and striatum-specific in utero electroporation in the c57bl/6 mouse
Uploaded: 2016-01-18T14:00:00
Description: Watch this Scientific Journal Video about Cortex-, Hippocampus-, Thalamus-, Hypothalamus-, Lateral Septal Nucleus- and Striatum-specific In Utero Electroporation in the C57BL/6 Mouse at JoVE.com

Technical supported by Melanie Pfeifer and Nikolai Schmarowski (Institute for Microscopic Anatomy and Neurobiology, University Medical Center Mainz).

Ethics Statement: The handling of the mice and the experimental procedures were conducted in accordance with European, national and institutional guidelines for animal care.
1. In Utero Electroporation
Note: In utero electroporation was performed as previously published12,14. Therefore, the method is only described briefly in the following (Figure 1).
<ol>
	<li>Preparations
	<ol>
		<li>Prepare Fast Green colored endoto...

<ol>
	<li>Fukuchi-Shimogori, T., Grove, E. A. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Neocortex+patterning+by+the+secreted+signaling+molecule+FGF8.">Neocortex patterning by the secreted signaling molecule FGF8.</a> Science. 294 (5544), 1071-1074 (2001).</li><li>Saito, T., Nakatsuji, N. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Efficient+gene+transfer+into+the+embryonic+mouse+brain+using+in+vivo+electroporation.">Efficient gene transfer into the embryonic mouse brain using in vivo electroporation.</a> Dev Biol. 240 (1), 237-246 (2001).</li><li>Tabata, H., Nakajima, K. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Efficient+in+utero+gene+transfer+system+to+the+developing+mouse+brain+using+electroporation:+Visualization+of+neuronal+migration+in+the+developing+cortex.">Efficient in utero gene transfer system to the developing mouse brain using electroporation: Visualization of neuronal migration in the developing cortex.</a> Neuroscience. 103 (4), 865-872 (2001).</li><li>LoTurco, J., Manent, J. 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F. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Long-term,+selective+gene+expression+in+developing+and+adult+hippocampal+pyramidal+neurons+using+focal+in+utero+electroporation.">Long-term, selective gene expression in developing and adult hippocampal pyramidal neurons using focal in utero electroporation.</a> J Neurosci. 27 (19), 5007-5011 (2007).</li><li>Borrell, V., Yoshimura, Y., Callaway, E. M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Targeted+gene+delivery+to+telencephalic+inhibitory+neurons+by+directional+in+utero+electroporation.">Targeted gene delivery to telencephalic inhibitory neurons by directional in utero electroporation.</a> J Neurosci Methods. 143 (2), 151-158 (2005).</li><li>Kolk, S. M., de Mooij-Malsen, A. J., Martens, G. J. M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Spatiotemporal+Molecular+Approach+of+in+utero+Electroporation+to+Functionally+Decipher+Endophenotypes+in+Neurodevelopmental+Disorders.">Spatiotemporal Molecular Approach of in utero Electroporation to Functionally Decipher Endophenotypes in Neurodevelopmental Disorders.</a> FNMOL. 4 (November), 37 (2011).</li><li>Tomita, K., Kubo, K. I., Ishii, K., Nakajima, K. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Disrupted-in-schizophrenia-1+(Disc1)+is+necessary+for+migration+of+the+pyramidal+neurons+during+mouse+hippocampal+development.">Disrupted-in-schizophrenia-1 (Disc1) is necessary for migration of the pyramidal neurons during mouse hippocampal development.</a> Hu Mol Gen. 20 (14), 2834-2845 (2011).</li><li>Niwa, M., Kamiya, A., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Knockdown+of+DISC1+by+In+Utero+Gene+Transfer+Disturbs+Postnatal+Dopaminergic+Maturation+in+the+Frontal+Cortex+and+Leads+to+Adult+Behavioral+Deficits.">Knockdown of DISC1 by In Utero Gene Transfer Disturbs Postnatal Dopaminergic Maturation in the Frontal Cortex and Leads to Adult Behavioral Deficits.</a> Neuron. 65 (4), 480-489 (2010).</li><li>Nakahira, E., Kagawa, T., Shimizu, T., Goulding, M. D., Ikenaka, K. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Direct+evidence+that+ventral+forebrain+cells+migrate+to+the+cortex+and+contribute+to+the+generation+of+cortical+myelinating+oligodendrocytes.">Direct evidence that ventral forebrain cells migrate to the cortex and contribute to the generation of cortical myelinating oligodendrocytes.</a> Dev Biol. 291 (1), 123-131 (2006).</li><li>Baumgart, J., Grebe, N. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=C57BL/6-specific+conditions+for+efficient+in+utero+electroporation+of+the+central+nervous+system.">C57BL/6-specific conditions for efficient in utero electroporation of the central nervous system.</a> J Neurosci Methods. 240, 116-124 (2015).</li><li>Saito, T. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=In+vivo+electroporation+in+the+embryonic+mouse+central+nervous+system.">In vivo electroporation in the embryonic mouse central nervous system.</a> Nat Protc. 1 (3), 1552-1558 (2006).</li><li>Matsui, A., Yoshida, A. 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(65), e3564 (2012).</li><li>Mizutani, K., Saito, T. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Progenitors+resume+generating+neurons+after+temporary+inhibition+of+neurogenesis+by+Notch+activation+in+the+mammalian+cerebral+cortex.">Progenitors resume generating neurons after temporary inhibition of neurogenesis by Notch activation in the mammalian cerebral cortex.</a> Development. 132 (6), 1295-1304 (2005).</li><li>Tabata, H., Nakajima, K. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Labeling+embryonic+mouse+central+nervous+system+cells+by+in+utero+electroporation.">Labeling embryonic mouse central nervous system cells by in utero electroporation.</a> Dev, Growth &amp; Differ. 50 (6), 507-511 (2008).</li></ol>

This protocol describes in detail how to transfect the retrosplenial cortex, the motor cortex, the somatosensory cortex, the piriform cortex, the cornu ammonis 1-3, the dentate gyrus, the striatum, the lateral septal nucleus, the thalamus and the hypothalamus of C75BL/6 mice. With all the provided information this is the first protocol, which supplies all necessary information to easily recreate transfections of these cerebral regions in the C57BL/6 mouse. Previous publications are mostly focused only on a few specific r...

Since the first description in 2001 by three independent groups 1-3 in utero electroporation has become a widely used standard tool for analyzing gene expression in the rodent central nervous system. Compared to the generation of knockout mice, which is, despite continuously improving techniques, still time and money consuming, the in utero electroporation appeals due to its simplicity. So, in utero electroporation enables fast and efficient gain- and loss-of-function studies 4.
To transfect the cerebral regions, the solution containing the negatively charged plasmid is injected into a ventricle. During the electric pulse, the negatively charged DNA migrates towards the positive pole and therefore the transfected region can be selected simply by altering the position of the positive pole. It has frequently been shown that numerous regions of the central nervous system can be targeted 3,5-8. For instance, recent studies show specific transfections of the hippocampus, the piriform cortex or the striatum 9-11. However, the information about the appropriate positions are often only scarcely standardized and are not always easy to transfer to different mouse strains.
Transfection of certain embryonic stages is far from trivial. Many influencing factors must be taken into consideration when choosing the set-up for specific in utero electroporation. First, to optimally transfect the respective embryonic stages, knowledge about the appropriate voltages is needed. High voltages decrease the survival rate, whereas low voltages reduce the transfection efficiency 2,3,12. Also the size of the electrode paddle plays a crucial role, because the use of electrode paddles that are too large results in reduced specificity or can cause death due to affection of the heart rhythm 4,12,13. The applied voltage and the size and the position of the electrode paddle are the most important features to consider, but there are also further factors influencing the outcome of the electroporation, like the applied amount of DNA-solution.
We have developed a detailed protocol which enables fast and efficient transfection of various cerebral regions of the C57BL/6 mouse 12. In this protocol detailed information about the voltages to be used and the size of the electrode paddle for enhanced specificity is provided. Further, information about the ventricle to be filled along with recommendations for the amount of plasmid solution and the position of the electrode is supplied. The indication of the detailed position information in a map and the further visualization of these positions enables straightforward specific and efficient in utero electroporation of the retrosplenial cortex, the motor cortex, the somatosensory cortex, the piriform cortex, the cornu ammonis 1-3, the dentate gyrus, the striatum, the lateral septal nucleus, the thalamus and the hypothalamus.

<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="898">
	<tbody>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:328px;">EndoFree Plasmid Maxi Kit</td>
			<td style="width:215px;">QIAGEN</td>
			<td style="width:188px;">12362</td>
			<td style="width:167px;"></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;">Fast Green</td>
			<td>Roth</td>
			<td>0301.1</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;">pCAGGS</td>
			<td>Addgene</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;">borosilicate glass capillaries (0.8-0.9 mm diameter)</td>
			<td>Wold Precision Instrument Inc.</td>
			<td>1B100F-4</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;">Isoflurane (Forene)</td>
			<td>Abbott</td>
			<td>PZN 4831850</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;">Carprofen (Rimadyl)</td>
			<td>Pfizer GmbH</td>
			<td>approval number: 400684.00.00</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;">eye ointment (Bepanthen Augen und Nasensalbe)</td>
			<td>Bayer&#160;</td>
			<td>PZN 01578681</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="60">
			<td height="60" style="height:60px;">0.9% benzyl alcohol 0.9% saline solution</td>
			<td style="width:215px;">Pharmacy 
			of the University Medical Center Mainz</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;">gauze (ES-Kompressen)</td>
			<td>Hartmann</td>
			<td>407835</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;">sterile 5-0 Perma-Hand Silk Suture</td>
			<td>Ethicon Johnson &#38; Johnson</td>
			<td>K890H</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;">ring forceps 1/ 1.5 mm</td>
			<td>Fine Science Tools</td>
			<td>11101-09</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;">ring forceps 4.8/ 6 mm</td>
			<td>Fine Science Tools</td>
			<td>11106-09</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;">ring forceps 2.2/ 3 mm</td>
			<td>Fine Science Tools</td>
			<td>11103-09</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;">Adson Forceps-Serrated Straight 12 cm</td>
			<td>Fine Science Tools</td>
			<td>1106-12</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;">IrisScissors-Delicate Straight-Sharp/Blunt 10 cm</td>
			<td>Fine Science Tools</td>
			<td>14028-10</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;">Mayo-Stille Scissors-Straight 15 cm</td>
			<td>Fine Science Tools</td>
			<td>14012-15</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;">Dumont #5 Forceps-Inox</td>
			<td>Fine Science Tools</td>
			<td>11251-20</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;">Castroviejo NeedleHolder-with Lock-Tungsten Carbide 14 cm</td>
			<td>Fine Science Tools</td>
			<td>12565-14</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;">Elektroporator CUY21 SC&#160;</td>
			<td>Nepa Gene Co.</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;">FST 250 Hot Bead Sterilizer</td>
			<td>Fine Science Tools</td>
			<td>18000-45</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;">Microgrinder EG-44</td>
			<td>Narishige</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;">P-97 Micropette Puller</td>
			<td>Sutter Instrument Company</td>
			<td>P-97</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;">Platinum electrodes 650P 0.5 mm</td>
			<td>Nepagene</td>
			<td>CUY650P0.5</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;">Platinum electrodes 650P 3 mm</td>
			<td>Nepagene</td>
			<td>CUY650P3</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;">Platinum electrodes 650P 5 mm</td>
			<td>Nepagene</td>
			<td>CUY650P5</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;">Platinum electrodes 650P 10 mm</td>
			<td>Nepagene</td>
			<td>CUY650P10</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;">Anesthesia system</td>
			<td>Rothacher-Medical GmbH</td>
			<td>CV-30511-3 Vapor 19.3</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;">Heating plate</td>
			<td>Rothacher-Medical GmbH</td>
			<td>HP-1M</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;">Temperature Controller 220V AC</td>
			<td>Rothacher-Medical GmbH</td>
			<td>TCAT-2LV</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

cortex-, hippocampus-, thalamus-, hypothalamus-, lateral septal nucleus- and striatum-specific in utero electroporation in the c57bl/6 mouse

In utero electroporation is a widely used technique for fast and efficient spatiotemporal manipulation of various genes in the rodent central nervous system. Overexpression of desired genes is just as possible as shRNA mediated loss-of-function studies. Therefore it offers a wide range of applications. The feasibility to target particular cells in a distinct area further increases the range of potential applications of this very useful method. For efficiently targeting specific regions knowledge about the subtleties, such as the embryonic stage, the voltage to apply and most importantly the position of the electrodes, is indispensable.
Here, we provide a detailed protocol that allows for specific and efficient in utero electroporation of several regions of the C57BL/6 mouse central nervous system. In particular it is shown how to transfect regions the develop into the retrosplenial cortex, the motor cortex, the somatosensory cortex, the piriform cortex, the cornu ammonis 1-3, the dentate gyrus, the striatum, the lateral septal nucleus, the thalamus and the hypothalamus. For this information about the appropriate embryonic stage, the appropriate voltage for the corresponding embryonic stage is provided. Most importantly an angle-map, which indicates the appropriate position of the positive pole, is depicted. This standardized protocol helps to facilitate efficient in utero electroporation, which might also lead to a reduced number of animals.

Figure 2, shows examples for the specific in utero electroporation of the regions developing into the retrosplenial cortex, the motor cortex, the somatosensory cortex, the piriform cortex, the cornu ammonis 1-3, the dentate gyrus, the striatum, the lateral septal nucleus, the thalamus and the hypothalamus. The results of the transfections are shown next to the recommended angle (Figure 2). For better visualization of the angles in vivo the position of the electrode (0.5...

Watch this Scientific Journal Video about Cortex-, Hippocampus-, Thalamus-, Hypothalamus-, Lateral Septal Nucleus- and Striatum-specific In Utero Electroporation in the C57BL/6 Mouse at JoVE.com

Cortex-, Hippocampus-, Thalamus-, Hypothalamus-, Lateral Septal Nucleus- and Striatum-specific In Utero Electroporation in the C57BL/6 Mouse

This protocol describes in detail how to specifically transfect different regions in the C57BL/6 central nervous system via in utero electroporation. Included in this protocol are detailed instructions for transfections of regions that develop into the cortex, hippocampus, thalamus, hypothalamus, lateral septal nucleus and striatum.

Cortex-, Hippocampus-, Thalamus-, Hypothalamus-, Lateral Septal Nucleus- and Striatum-specific In Utero Electroporation in the C57BL/6 Mouse

In utero electroporation is a widely used technique for fast and efficient spatiotemporal manipulation of various genes in the rodent central nervous ...

The overall goal of this in vivo cell manipulation is to specifically modify cells of certain regions in the central nervous system of the mouse-like cortex, hippocampus, thalamus, hypothalamus, lateral septal nucleus, and striatum. This method can help to answer key questions concerning the development and function of the brain, for instance, through the identification of different signaling cascades and the determination of the level of cell differentiation. The main advantage of this technique is that it allows for fast and efficient manipulation of various cell types in the central nervous system without the time-consuming generation of genetically modified mice.Generally, the demonstration of this method is helpful, because individuals new to this method will often struggle with finding the right electrode position, which is critical for specific electroporation. To begin this procedure, cut open the abdominal cavity of an anesthetized pregnant mouse with a scalpel. Prevent the opened abdominal cavity from drying by moistening it with 0.9%warm methyl alcohol saline solution.Then, carefully extract the uterine horns using a pair of ring forceps. Next, position an E14 embryo so that there are no visible vessels above the puncture site. To have a better visualization, use a 5-millimeter electrode to locate the angle and position of the desired area in the brain for transfection.For the in utero electroporation of cortical area, slowly inject 1.5 to two microliters of the DNA solution in the left lateral ventricle. And ensure that the insertion depth is one to two millimeters, measured from the uterine wall. Then, check for blue-green coloring with a sharp demarcation.For better visualization, use a 5-millimeter electrode to locate the angle and position of the desired location in the brain for transfection. After that, place the center of the three-millimeter platinum electrode paddles just anterior of the ear primordia, and make sure that they are not placed above the vessels or the placenta. Subsequently, apply voltage to begin transfection.For the in utero electroporation of hippocampal formation, inject two microliters of DNA solution in the right lateral ventricle of an E15 embryo. Then, place the negative pole of the three to five millimeter platinum electrode paddles just anterior of the ear primordium, and the positive pole at the middle of the ear primordium. Then, apply voltage to begin transfection.For the in utero electroporation of the lateral septal nucleus and striatum, inject one microliter of DNA solution in the right lateral ventricle of an E12 embryo. Then, place the 5-millimeter electrodes at the level of the ear primordia. Subsequently, apply voltage to begin transfection.For the in utero electroporation of the thalamus and hypothalamus, inject one to 1.5 microliters of DNA solution in the lateral ventricle of an E12 to E13 embryo. Then, wait for two to three minutes for the solution to diffuse into the third ventricle. Next, place the 5 or three-millimeter electrodes just posterior to the ear primordia.After that, apply voltage to begin transfection. This schematic shows the appropriate positions for the positive and negative poles for transfecting cortical areas. And this one, shows the positions of the positive and negative pole for transfecting the hippocampal formations.The positions of the positive and negative pole for transfecting the striatum and the lateral septal nucleus are shown here. And the appropriate positions of the electrodes for transfecting the thalamus and the hypothalamus are shown here. The specificity of transfection depends on the electrode size.Increasing the size of electrode paddle reduces the specificity of the transfection. This is especially obvious in younger embryonic stages, but also visible in late embryonic stages. Once mastered, this technique can be done in 15 minutes if it is performed properly.While attempting this procedure, it's important to handle the embryos and the mothers with great care. After watching this video, you should have a good understanding of how to transfect specific regions in the central nervous system of the Black 6 mouse.

cortex-hippocampus-thalamus-hypothalamus-lateral-septal-nucleus

Research

JoVE Journal

Neuroscience

Mouse in Utero Electroporation: Controlled Spatiotemporal Gene Transfection

In order to understand the function of genes expressed in specific region of the developing brain, including signaling molecules and axon guidance molecules, local gene transfer or knock- out is required. Gene targeting knock-in or knock-out into local regions is possible to perform with combination with a specific CRE line, which is laborious, costly, and time consuming. Therefore, a simple transfection method, an in utero electroporation technique, which can be performed with short time, will be handy to test the possible function of candidate genes prior to the generation of transgenic animals 1,2. In addition to this, in utero electroporation targets areas of the brain where no specific CRE line exists, and will limit embryonic lethality 3,4. Here, we present a method of in utero electroporation combining two different types of electrodes for simple and convenient gene transfer into target areas of the developing brain. First, a unique holding method of embryos using an optic fiber optic light cable will make small embryos (from E9.5) visible for targeted DNA solution injection into ventricles and needle type electrodes insertion to the targeted brain area 5,6. The patterning of the brain such as cortical area occur at early embryonic stage, therefore, these early electroporation from E9.5 make a big contribution to understand entire area patterning event. Second, the precise shape of a capillary prevents uterine damage by making holes by insertion of the capillary. Furthermore, the precise shape of the needle electrodes are created with tungsten and platinum wire and sharpened using sand paper and insulated with nail polish 7, a method which is described in great detail in this protocol. This unique technique allows transfection of plasmid DNA into restricted areas of the brain and will enable small embryos to be electroporated. This will help to, open a new window for many scientists who are working on cell differentiation, cell migration, axon guidance in very early embryonic stage. Moreover, this technique will allow scientists to transfect plasmid DNA into deep parts of the developing brain such as thalamus and hypothalamus, where not many region-specific CRE lines exist for gain of function (GOF) or loss of function (LOF) analyses.

Mouse in Utero Electroporation: Controlled Spatiotemporal Gene Transfection

A gene transfer method into the developing mouse brain is described by using a unique surgical method and special shape of electrodes. This unique technique allows transfection of plasmid DNA temporally and spatially, which will aid many neuroscientists in studying brain development.

In order to understand the function of genes expressed in specific region of the developing brain, including signaling molecules and axon guidance ...

Visualization and Genetic Manipulation of Dendrites and Spines in the Mouse Cerebral Cortex and Hippocampus using In utero Electroporation

In utero electroporation (IUE) has become a powerful technique to study the development of different regions of the embryonic nervous system 1-5. To date this tool has been widely used to study the regulation of cellular proliferation, differentiation and neuronal migration especially in the developing cerebral cortex 6-8. Here we detail our protocol to electroporate in utero the cerebral cortex and the hippocampus and provide evidence that this approach can be used to study dendrites and spines in these two cerebral regions.
Visualization and manipulation of neurons in primary cultures have contributed to a better understanding of the processes involved in dendrite, spine and synapse development. However neurons growing in vitro are not exposed to all the physiological cues that can affect dendrite and/or spine formation and maintenance during normal development. Our knowledge of dendrite and spine structures in vivo in wild-type or mutant mice comes mostly from observations using the Golgi-Cox method 9. However, Golgi staining is considered to be unpredictable. Indeed, groups of nerve cells and fiber tracts are labeled randomly, with particular areas often appearing completely stained while adjacent areas are devoid of staining. Recent studies have shown that IUE of fluorescent constructs represents an attractive alternative method to study dendrites, spines as well as synapses in mutant / wild-type mice 10-11 (Figure 1A). Moreover in comparison to the generation of mouse knockouts, IUE represents a rapid approach to perform gain and loss of function studies in specific population of cells during a specific time window. In addition, IUE has been successfully used with inducible gene expression or inducible RNAi approaches to refine the temporal control over the expression of a gene or shRNA 12. These advantages of IUE have thus opened new dimensions to study the effect of gene expression/suppression on dendrites and spines not only in specific cerebral structures (Figure 1B) but also at a specific time point of development (Figure 1C).
Finally, IUE provides a useful tool to identify functional interactions between genes involved in dendrite, spine and/or synapse development. Indeed, in contrast to other gene transfer methods such as virus, it is straightforward to combine multiple RNAi or transgenes in the same population of cells. 
In summary, IUE is a powerful method that has already contributed to the characterization of molecular mechanisms underlying brain function and disease and it should also be useful in the study of dendrites and spines.

Visualization and Genetic Manipulation of Dendrites and Spines in the Mouse Cerebral Cortex and Hippocampus using In utero Electroporation

This article describes in detail a protocol to electroporate in utero the cerebral cortex and the hippocampus at E14.5 in mice. We also show that this is a valuable method to study dendrites and spines in these two cerebral regions.

In utero electroporation (IUE) has become a powerful technique to study the development of different regions of the embryonic nervous system 1-5. To date ...

Genetic Manipulation of the Mouse Developing Hypothalamus through In utero Electroporation

Genetic modification of specific regions of the developing mammalian brain is a very powerful experimental approach. However, generating novel mouse mutants is often frustratingly slow. It has been shown that access to the mouse brain developing in utero with reasonable post-operatory survival is possible. Still, results with this procedure have been reported almost exclusively for the most superficial and easily accessible part of the developing brain, i.e. the cortex. The thalamus, a narrower and more medial region, has proven more difficult to target. Transfection into deeper nuclei, especially those of the hypothalamus, is perhaps the most challenging and therefore very few results have been reported. Here we demonstrate a procedure to target the entire hypothalamic neuroepithelium or part of it (hypothalamic regions) for transfection through electroporation. The keys to our approach are longer narcosis times, injection in the third ventricle, and appropriate kind and positioning of the electrodes. Additionally, we show results of targeting and subsequent histological analysis of the most recessed hypothalamic nucleus, the mammillary body.

Genetic Manipulation of the Mouse Developing Hypothalamus through In utero Electroporation

Despite the functional and medical importance of the hypothalamus, in utero genetic manipulation of its development has rarely been attempted. We show a detailed procedure for in utero electroporation into the mouse hypothalamus and show representative results of total and partial (regional) hypothalamic transfection.

Genetic  modification of specific regions of the developing mammalian brain is a very  powerful experimental approach. However, generating novel mouse ...

A Simple Approach to Induce Experimental Autoimmune Neuritis in C57BL/6 Mice for Functional and Neuropathological Assessments

Experimental autoimmune neuritis (EAN) is a well-appreciated experimental model of autoimmune peripheral demyelinating diseases. EAN disease is induced by immunizing mice with neurogenic peptides to direct an inflammatory attack toward components of the peripheral nervous system (PNS). Recent advances have enabled the induction of EAN in the relatively resistant C57BL/6 mouse line using myelin protein zero (P0)106-125 or P0180-199 peptides delivered in adjuvant combined with the injection of pertussis toxin. The ability to induce EAN in the C57BL/6 strain allows for the use of the numerous genetic tools that exist on this mouse background, and thus allows the sophisticated study of disease pathogenesis and interrogation of the mechanistic action of novel therapeutics in combination with transgenic approaches. In this study, we demonstrate a simple approach to successfully induce EAN using the P0180-199 peptide in C57BL/6 mice. We also outline a protocol for the assessment of functional deficits that occur in this model, accompanied by an array of neuropathological features. Thus, this model is a powerful experimental model to study the pathogenesis of human peripheral demyelinating neuropathies, and to determine the efficacy of potential therapies that aim to promote myelin repair and protect against nerve damage in autoimmune neuritis.

This report outlines a simple approach to successfully induce experimental autoimmune neuritis (EAN) using the myelin protein zero (P0)180-199 peptide in combination with Freund&#39;s complete adjuvant and pertussis toxin. We present a sophisticated paradigm capable of accurately assessing the extent of functional deficits and neuropathology that occur in this EAN.

Experimental autoimmune neuritis (EAN) is a well-appreciated experimental model of autoimmune peripheral demyelinating diseases. EAN disease is induced by ...

Inducing Cre-lox Recombination in Mouse Cerebral Cortex Through In Utero Electroporation

Cell-autonomous neuronal functions of genes can be revealed by causing loss or gain of function of a gene in a small and sparse population of neurons. To do so requires generating a mosaic in which neurons with loss or gain of function of a gene are surrounded by genetically unperturbed tissue. Here, we combine the Cre-lox recombination system with in utero electroporation in order to generate mosaic brain tissue that can be used to study the cell-autonomous function of genes in neurons. DNA constructs (available through repositories), coding for a fluorescent label and Cre recombinase, are introduced into developing cortical neurons containing genes flanked with loxP sites in the brains of mouse embryos using in utero electroporation. Additionally, we describe various adaptations to the in utero electroporation method that increase survivability and reproducibility. This method also involves establishing a titer for Cre-mediated recombination in a sparse or dense population of neurons. Histological preparations of labeled brain tissue do not require (but can be adapted to) immunohistochemistry. The constructs used guarantee that fluorescently labeled neurons carry the gene for Cre recombinase. Histological preparations allow morphological analysis of neurons through confocal imaging of dendritic and axonal arbors and dendritic spines. Because loss or gain of function is achieved in sparse mosaic tissue, this method permits the study of cell-autonomous necessity and sufficiency of gene products in vivo.

Inducing Cre-lox Recombination in Mouse Cerebral Cortex Through In Utero Electroporation

Cell-autonomous functions of genes in the brain can be studied by inducing loss or gain of function in sparse populations of cells. Here, we describe in utero electroporation to deliver Cre recombinase into sparse populations of developing cortical neurons with floxed genes to cause loss of function in vivo.

Cell-autonomous neuronal functions of genes can be revealed by causing loss or gain of function of a gene in a small and sparse population of neurons. To ...

Cochlear Implant Surgery and Electrically-evoked Auditory Brainstem Response Recordings in C57BL/6 Mice

Cochlear implants (CIs) are neuroprosthetic devices that can provide a sense of hearing to deaf people. However, a CI cannot restore all aspects of hearing. Improvement of the implant technology is needed if CI users are to perceive music and perform in more natural environments, such as hearing out a voice with competing talkers, reflections, and other sounds. Such improvement requires experimental animals to better understand the mechanisms of electric stimulation in the cochlea and its responses in the whole auditory system. The mouse is an increasingly attractive model due to the many genetic models available. However, the limited use of this species as a CI model is mainly due to the difficulty of implanting small electrode arrays. More details about the surgical procedure are therefore of great interest to expand the use of mice in CI research.
In this report, we describe in detail the protocol for acute deafening and cochlear implantation of an electrode array in the C57BL/6 mouse strain. We demonstrate the functional efficacy of this procedure with electrically-evoked auditory brainstem response (eABR) and show examples of facial nerve stimulation. Finally, we also discuss the importance of including a deafening procedure when using a normally hearing animal. This mouse model provides a powerful opportunity to study genetic and neurobiological mechanisms that would be of relevance for CI users.

Animal models of cochlear implants can advance knowledge of the technological bases of treating permanent sensorineural hearing loss with electrical stimulation. This study presents a surgical protocol for acute deafening and cochlear implantation of an electrode array in mice as well as the functional assessment with auditory brainstem response.

Cochlear implants (CIs) are neuroprosthetic devices that can provide a sense of hearing to deaf people. However, a CI cannot restore all aspects of ...

Double In Utero Electroporation to Target Temporally and Spatially Separated Cell Populations

In utero electroporation is an in vivo DNA transfer technique extensively used to study the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying mammalian corticogenesis. This procedure takes advantage of the brain ventricles to allow the introduction of DNA of interest and uses a pair of electrodes to direct the entrance of the genetic material into the cells lining the ventricle, the neural stem cells. This method allows researchers to label the desired cells and/or manipulate the expression of genes of interest in those cells. It has multiple applications, including assays targeting neuronal migration, lineage tracing, and axonal pathfinding. An important feature of this method is its temporal and regional control, allowing circumvention of potential problems related with embryonic lethality or the lack of specific CRE driver mice. Another relevant aspect of this technique is that it helps to considerably reduce the economic and temporal limitations that involve the generation of new mouse lines, which become particularly important in the study of interactions between cell types that originate in distant areas of the brain at different developmental ages. Here we describe a double electroporation strategy that enables targeting of cell populations that are spatially and temporally separated. With this approach we can label different subtypes of cells in different locations with selected fluorescent proteins to visualize them, and/or we can manipulate genes of interest expressed by these different cells at the appropriate times. This strategy enhances the potential of in utero electroporation and provides a powerful tool to study the behavior of temporally and spatially separated cell populations that migrate to establish close contacts, as well as long-range interactions through axonal projections, reducing temporal and economic costs.

Double in utero electroporation allows targeting cell populations that are spatially and temporally separated. This technique is useful to visualize interactions between those cell populations using fluorescent proteins in normal conditions but also after functional experiments to perturb genes of interest.

In utero electroporation is an in vivo DNA transfer technique extensively used to study the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying mammalian ...

LFP Recording in Mouse Brain for Cognitive Research and Drug Analysis

Dual Extracellular Recordings in the Mouse Hippocampus and Prefrontal Cortex

The technique of recording local field potentials (LFPs) is an electrophysiological method used to measure the electrical activity of localized neuronal populations. It serves as a crucial tool in cognitive research, particularly in brain regions like the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. Dual LFP recordings between these areas are of particular interest as they allow the exploration of interregional signal communication. However, methods for performing these recordings are rarely described, and most commercial recording devices are either expensive or lack adaptability to accommodate specific experimental designs. This study presents a comprehensive protocol for performing dual-electrode LFP recordings in the mouse hippocampus and the prefrontal cortex to investigate the effects of antipsychotic drugs and potassium channel modulators on LFP properties in these areas. The technique enables the measurement of LFP properties, including power spectra within each brain region and coherence between the two. Additionally, a low-cost, custom-designed recording device has been developed for these experiments. In summary, this protocol provides a means to record signals with high signal-to-noise ratios in different brain regions, facilitating the investigation of interregional information communication within the brain.

Author Spotlight: Studying Drug Impacts on Brain Signals Using Dual LFP Recording Protocol in Mice

This protocol outlines the use of a custom-designed recording device and electrodes to record local field potentials and investigate information flow in the mouse hippocampus and prefrontal cortex.

The technique of recording local field potentials (LFPs) is an electrophysiological method used to measure the electrical activity of localized neuronal ...

Adolescent Social Stress Paradigm in C57BL&amp;#47;6 Mice for Behavioral Research

Social Defeat Stress Model for Adolescent C57BL&#47;6 Male and Female Mice

Social adversity in adolescence is prevalent and can negatively impact mental health trajectories. Modeling social stress in adolescent male and female rodents is needed to understand its effects on ongoing brain development and behavioral outcomes. The chronic social defeat stress paradigm (CSDS) has been widely used to model social stress in adult C57BL/6 male mice by leveraging on the aggressive behavior displayed by an adult male rodent to an intruder invading its territory. An advantage of this paradigm is that it allows to categorize defeated mice into resilient and susceptible groups based on their individual differences in social behavior 24 h after the last defeat session. Implementing this model in adolescent C57BL/6 mice has been challenging because adult or adolescent mice do not typically attack early adolescent male or female mice and because adolescence is a short period of life, encompassing discreet temporal windows of vulnerability. This limitation was overcome by adapting an accelerated version of the CSDS to be used for adolescent male and female mice. This 4-day stress paradigm with 2 physical attack sessions per day uses a C57BL/6 male adult to prime the CD-1 mouse for aggressiveness such that it readily attacks the male or female adolescent mouse. This model was termed accelerated social defeat stress (AcSD) for adolescent mice. Adolescent exposure to AcSD induces social avoidance 24 h later in both males and females, but only in a subset of defeated mice. This vulnerability occurs despite the number of attacks being consistent across sessions between resilient and susceptible groups. The AcSD model is short enough to allow exposure during discrete periods within adolescence, allows the segregation of mice according to the presence or absence of social avoidance behavior, and is the first model available to study social defeat stress in adolescent C57BL/6 female mice.

Author Spotlight: Understanding Adolescent Social Adversity Effects on Neurodevelopment in Mice

We developed an accelerated social defeat stress model for adolescent C57BL/6 mice, which works in both males and females and allows exposure during discrete adolescent periods. Exposure to this model induces social avoidance, but only in a subset of defeated male and female mice.

Social adversity in adolescence is prevalent and can negatively impact mental health trajectories. Modeling social stress in adolescent male and female ...