Rodent Brain Slices
Rodent Brain Slices - Related Videos
09:21
DiOLISTIC Labeling of Neurons from Rodent and Non-human Primate Brain Slices
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Cited by 60 •
2010
We demonstrate the use of the gene gun to introduce fluorescent dyes, such as DiI, into neurons in brain slices from rodents and non-human primates of different ages. In this particular case, we use adult mice (3-6 months old) and adult cynomologus monkeys (9-15 years old). This technique, originally described by the laboratory of Dr. Lichtman (Gan et al., 2000), is well suited for the study of dendritic branching and dendritic spine morphology and can be combined with traditional...
05:23
A Modified Roller Tube Method for the Long-Term Culture of Rodent Brain Slices
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2025
This video demonstrates a modified roller tube method for the long-term culturing of brain slices from a rodent model. First, the brain slices are attached to coverslips. Then, flat-sided roller tubes with a hole on the flat side are taken, and the coverslips are positioned on the hole using adhesive discs. Finally, a nutrient medium and a carbon dioxide and air mixture are added to the tube, and the tubes are incubated with a rolling motion.
07:44
Evaluation of Synapse Density in Hippocampal Rodent Brain Slices
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Cited by 31 •
2017
A protocol for accurately identifying and analyzing synapses in hippocampal slices using immunofluorescence is outlined in this article.
08:38
Vibrodissociation of Neurons from Rodent Brain Slices to Study Synaptic Transmission and Image Presynaptic Terminals
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Cited by 17 •
2011
This report demonstrates a technique for mechanical isolation of individual viable neurons retaining attached presynaptic boutons. Vibrodissociated neurons have the advantages of rapid production, excellent pharmacological control and improved space-clamp without influence from neighboring cells. This method can be used for imaging of synaptic elements and patch-clamp recording.
10:24
Recording and Modulation of Epileptiform Activity in Rodent Brain Slices Coupled to Microelectrode Arrays
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Cited by 25 •
2018
We illustrate how to perform recording and electrical modulation of 4-aminopyridine-induced epileptiform activity in rodent brain slices using microelectrode arrays. A custom recording chamber maintains tissue viability throughout prolonged experimental sessions. Live electrode mapping and selection of stimulating pairs are performed by a custom graphical user interface.
FAQs
Their main experimental advantage is retention of cellular organization, local circuitry, and native tissue interactions. These features allow a drug to influence connected neurons and synapses rather than isolated cells alone. Pharmacologists can therefore examine receptor activity, synaptic transmission, membrane responses, and circuit-level effects within a controlled ex vivo preparation.
Oxygenated artificial cerebrospinal fluid provides the controlled bathing environment in which the isolated tissue is maintained. This setup permits investigators to apply pharmacological agents directly to the preparation while recording neural responses. Because exposure occurs without whole-animal distribution, researchers can relate an applied compound more directly to measured cellular, synaptic, or circuit effects.
Electrophysiology can measure changes in synaptic transmission, membrane activity, and broader circuit responses after drug exposure. Imaging provides another way to monitor neural effects within the preserved tissue. Together, these readouts help characterize receptor activity, dose-dependent responses, and potential toxicity across different levels of neural function.
A typical workflow begins with a freshly isolated rodent brain, followed by sectioning into thin slices. The slices are then maintained in oxygenated artificial cerebrospinal fluid, after which investigators apply pharmacological agents directly. Electrophysiological recordings or imaging can subsequently quantify effects on synapses, membrane activity, or circuit responses under controlled laboratory conditions.
This preparation is useful when researchers need direct control over drug exposure and neural measurements while reducing the complexity of a whole-animal experiment. It supports focused analysis of local mechanisms, including receptor activity and synaptic transmission. However, it cannot fully represent systemic metabolism or long-range connections, so whole-animal studies may still be needed for those questions.
The model supports studies of neurotransmission, disease-related neural dysfunction, and candidate therapeutics. Investigators can examine dose-dependent drug effects, receptor activity, synaptic and membrane responses, and potential toxicity in preserved tissue. These results can clarify how compounds act within local neural circuits and help characterize candidates before more complex experimental evaluation.