Issue 18, 2024

Fluorescent probes for neuroscience: imaging ex vivo brain tissue sections

Abstract

Neurobiological research relies heavily on imaging techniques, such as fluorescence microscopy, to understand neurological function and disease processes. However, the number and variety of fluorescent probes available for ex vivo tissue section imaging limits the advance of research in the field. In this review, we outline the current range of fluorescent probes that are available to researchers for ex vivo brain section imaging, including their physical and chemical characteristics, staining targets, and examples of discoveries for which they have been used. This review is organised into sections based on the biological target of the probe, including subcellular organelles, chemical species (e.g., labile metal ions), and pathological phenomenon (e.g., degenerating cells, aggregated proteins). We hope to inspire further development in this field, given the considerable benefits to be gained by the greater availability of suitably sensitive probes that have specificity for important brain tissue targets.

Graphical abstract: Fluorescent probes for neuroscience: imaging ex vivo brain tissue sections

Article information

Article type
Critical Review
Submitted
10 May 2024
Accepted
07 Aug 2024
First published
14 Aug 2024

Analyst, 2024,149, 4536-4552

Fluorescent probes for neuroscience: imaging ex vivo brain tissue sections

B. J. Schwehr, D. Hartnell, G. Ellison, M. T. Hindes, B. Milford, E. Dallerba, S. M. Hickey, F. M. Pfeffer, D. A. Brooks, M. Massi and M. J. Hackett, Analyst, 2024, 149, 4536 DOI: 10.1039/D4AN00663A

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