Astrocyte and Microvascular Imaging in Awake Animals Using Two‐Photon Microscopy. (April 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Tran, Cam Ha T.; Gordon, Grant R.
• Is Part Of: Microcirculation. Volume 22:Number 3(2015:Apr.)
• Page Start: 219
• Page End: 227
• Publication Date: 2015-04
• Subjects: Biological transport -- Periodicals; Microcirculation -- Physiology -- Periodicals; 612.135
• DOI: 10.1111/micc.12188
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1073-9688

Abstract

<abstract abstract-type="main" id="micc12188-abs-0001"> <title>Abstract</title> <p>Neurovascular coupling is an important control mechanism in CBF regulation. New insights into the integrated relationship between synaptic activity, astrocytes Ca²⁺, and cerebral blood vessels using two‐photon fluorescence imaging are slowly emerging. Here, we provide a brief overview of the current understandings and controversies regarding astrocytes in activity‐dependent vasodilation. We highlight the key advantages and disadvantages of the <italic>in vitro</italic> and <italic>in vivo</italic> methodologies used to study this topic. In particular, we emphasize some of the drawbacks of acute brain slices as well as the confounding effects of anesthesia in <italic>in vivo</italic> preparations. To overcome these limitations, we discuss an emerging and important trend in imaging cell Ca²⁺ and blood flow control in awake and behaving animals. This new approach may help resolve existing controversies on astrocyte control of arteriole diameter by providing a more physiologically relevant preparation to study CBF regulation.</p> </abstract>