System for guided imaging and characterization of neural circuits

描述（由申请人提供）：我们提出了Sirius工作站，这是一种创新的显微镜系统，结合了使用引导图像收集、细胞电生理记录和活组织中细胞填充的自动神经元重建功能。Sirius将是第一个商业上可获得的系统，以a）能够直接记录不同区域之间形成的单个远端突触连接，B）促进在刺激期间或作为刺激结果的神经元形态的潜在变化的重复监测，以及c）允许同时记录基于神经元结构识别的脑切片中不同区域之间形成的一个或多个神经元。该系统将允许在基础神经科学以及神经毒理学和药理学研究和开发中的神经功能和结构的综合研究方面取得重大进展，代表了超越最先进水平的明显进步。公共卫生相关性拟议项目将使目前不可行的神经科学研究中的新的重要研究成为可能。一个结合了引导自动神经元重建，细胞电生理记录和活组织细胞填充功能的系统将使研究人员能够更准确地识别神经回路中的细胞，即使是那些位于距离原始细胞一定距离的细胞。本项目的总体效果将允许在基础神经科学、神经毒理学、药理学研究以及涉及神经疾病研究的相关领域中收集高度相关的神经功能和结构综合研究数据。

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): We propose the Sirius workstation, an innovative microscope system combining the capabilities of automated neuron reconstruction using guided image collection, cell electrophysiological recording, and cell filling in live tissue. Sirius will be the first commercially available system to a) enable direct recording of single distal synaptic connections formed between different areas, b) facilitate repeated monitoring of potential alterations in neuronal morphology during or as a result of stimulation, and c) permit simultaneous recording of one or more neurons formed between different areas in brain slices identified based on neuronal structure. This system will allow significant advancements in integrated studies of neural function and structure in basic neuroscience as well as in neurotoxicology and pharmacological research and development, representing clear progress beyond the state-of-the-art. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE The proposed project will enable new important studies in neuroscience research which are not currently feasible. A system that combines the capabilities of guided automated neuron reconstruction, cell electrophysiological recording and cell filling in live tissue will allow researchers to more accurately identify cells within a neural circuit, even those located at a distance from the original cell. The overall effect of this project will permit the collection of highly relevant data in integrated studies of neural function and structure in basic neuroscience, neurotoxicology, pharmacological research, and related fields involving research in neurological disease.